Setting spray is a finishing mist used after makeup to help set your look, minimize fading or smudging, and support longer wear.Most formulas are applied as the final step, though some can be layered between complexion products for added staying power.
Key Takeaways
- Standout setting sprays include Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray (for glow or longevity), Urban Decay All Nighter Hyaluronic Acid Dewy Setting Spray, L’Oréal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray (for all-day wear), NYX Matte, Marshmellow or Dewy varieties (target specific skin needs), IT Cosmetics Your Skin But Better Setting Spray+ (hydrating).
- Setting spray is a finishing mist designed to set your makeup, help prevent fading, and enhance wear. Choose formulas that suit your desired finish (matte or dewy) and your skin type.
- For staying power, spritz setting spray as the final step of your routine; for even longer wear, you can layer it between each base product.
- Aerosol mists should be held about 5–6 inches from your face, while non-aerosol sprays should be applied from about 10 inches in X or T motions (always with eyes closed to protect the delicate area around them).
- Pair setting spray with a powder for lasting results: powder works well for oily skin, while dual-layering with spray helps set makeup for everyone.
What Does Setting Spray Do?
A setting spray is a formula that you apply on top of your makeup to help set it and support longer wear. Typically found in a spray bottle, formulas can vary to help you achieve different finishes—from glowy to matte. Setting spray selection should be based on desired look and specific skin type. Adding a setting spray to your makeup routine is essential, yet often overlooked. The benefits include:
- Helping prevent makeup melting, smudging, and fading
- Fewer makeup reapplications
- Enhancing the appearance of your makeup
When To Use Setting Spray
Now that the benefits of using setting spray as a daily practice have been covered, understanding an optimal way to apply it is equally important. Though it may seem straightforward, there are a few common misconceptions around when to use setting spray. For example, does setting spray go on before or after powder? Can you apply it multiple times as you layer makeup?
In general, setting spray should be used as the final step of your makeup routine. When you spray it on last, it helps set the makeup you’re wearing underneath. However, for even more staying power, you can apply it in-between each step of your base makeup—after foundation, then again after concealer, blush, contour, bronzer, and setting powder. If you’re using powder products, a setting spray will help them appear more natural in addition to helping support longer wear.
How To Use Setting Spray
How to best use setting spray can differ depending on the formula. For aerosol setting mists, the bottle should be held five to six inches from your face, and a generous amount sprayed across the entire face for three to four seconds. For non-aerosol setting sprays, shake the bottle first to ensure the formula is well-mixed. Hold the bottle about ten inches from your face and apply in X- or T-shaped motions. Always avoid spraying directly into your eyes—keep them closed when using either formulation to help set your eye makeup.
Reapplication of setting spray is generally not necessary, but can be done after a powder touch-up to achieve a more seamless appearance.
Setting Spray vs. Setting Powder
If you’re trying to decide between setting spray and setting powder, consider your skin type. In general, setting powders are best for oily skin as they tend to be more mattifying.
If you truly want to help your makeup last—regardless of skin type—use setting powder first, then setting spray as your final step. Together, the two can help set your makeup for extended wear.
