Does Setting Spray Really Work? Experts Weigh In - Byrdie

If you've been wearing makeup for a while, you've likely spritzed your fair share of setting sprays, especially for special events where a budge-proof look is a must. But do they actually work or is it all a placebo? Surely, there must be some sprays that are better than others, right?

As most of us have come to know, not all beauty products are made equal. To set the record straight, we reached out to two celebrity makeup artists. Below, they explain what a setting spray does, including which makeup sprays are the best and how to apply them to ensure a longwear finish. Keep scrolling to see their honest opinions about setting spray.

Meet the Experts

• Gloria Elias-Foeillet is a celebrity makeup artist, whose clientele includes Kelly Clarkson, Alessandra Ambrosio, and Emily Ratajkowski.
• Mia Yang is a celebrity makeup artist who has worked with Tracee Ellis Ross, Cara Delevingne, and Eiza Gonzalez.

What is a Setting Spray?

Setting spray is a liquid mist that typically lists water and alcohol as its main ingredients. Its goal is to increase the lifespan of your makeup look, preventing fading and smudging. It is widely recommended as the last step of a makeup routine to life-proof a look, but some people swear by using it pre-makeup, too.

Does Setting Spray Really Work?

According to makeup artist, Gloria Elias-Foeillet, setting sprays really, truly work. "Setting sprays absolutely make a difference in the wear of your makeup," she says. "They prolong the life of your makeup application." In particular, she swears by using a setting spray when working with performers.

And if that isn't proof enough, during the Beyoncé Renaissance Tour show, Bey performed in the pouring rain in Washington D.C., and her makeup didn't budge, smudge, or drip. Her makeup artist, Rokael, told us her secret was the One/Size's On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray. So, that's all the proof that we need to know that these magic misters, are well, magic, right?

What are the Benefits of Setting Spray?

Of course, the biggest benefit of setting spray is that it helps your makeup last longer, especially if you're anticipating a long night, going to an event where you anticipate sweating (or crying), or if the forecast is humid. If you opt for an alcohol-based spray, you'll get more bang for your buck as they tend to be a bit more effective and will give you more hold than a setting spray sans alcohol. But that's not to say that going the alcohol-free route is fruitless. Alcohol-free setting spray can give your skin that healthy, dewy, glass skin look without drying it out.

How to Use Setting Spray, the Right Way

As makeup artist, Mia Yang explains, "Setting spray is ideal for heavy-duty wear, in events such as weddings or a poolside summer party." The secret, she says, is the special combination of ingredients found inside. Here's how to apply it, step by step, according to the pros.

1. Apply Your Base

"Usually you spray it on after you have finished applying your makeup, but sometimes if I need it to be more waterproof, I spray it after each step of a makeup application (i.e. after base, eyes, blush, powder, etc)," says Elias-Foeillet. In general, you'll want to start with your primer followed by your base makeup (foundation, concealer, etc.). Next, spritz your setting spray all over the face to allow for that first layer to really stick.

2. Add Eyeshadow

Next, apply eyeshadow before using a mist of setting spray over each (closed eye). This will allow the shadow to dry before you add eyeliner.

3. Swipe On Eyeliner

Next comes the eyeliner. Again, once it's applied, mist a bit of the spray over each closed eye to allow the liner to dry and set. Waterproof setting spray is especially important for this step, as the eyes can water and cause makeup to run. These are some of our favorites.

4. Finish With Lipstick and Blush

Finally, add your final details—lipstick, blush, contour. Mist a couple of spritzes of the setting spray all over your face, holding the bottle a few inches away so it evenly distributes over the entire face.

Does Setting Spray Work for All Skin Types?

Many setting sprays contain alcohol, which can be drying and even cause slight irritation in skin types, so proceed with caution before using just any formula. As Yang puts it, "Remember that they are not skincare ingredients. Please keep in mind that setting spray is not for everyday use, and a little goes a long way. A light mist is more than enough." That said, there are setting sprays that are safe to use on all skin types, including sensitive skin.

Setting Sprays for Oily Skin

Skindinavia The Makeup Oil Control Finishing Spray

$33 for $27

If you have oily skin and your main concern is shininess, try this oil-controlling spray from Skindinavia, recommended by Elias-Foeillet, It's formulated to keep excess shine at bay while reducing the need for makeup touch-ups or oil-blotting sheets. 

NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray

$10 at Ulta

One of our favorite setting sprays is this affordable spritzer from NYX. It comes in two different finishes—matte and dewy. We think both perform equally well, though you can look to your skin type to inform which would be best for you. Matte for oily skin types and dewy for those with drier skin.

Setting Sprays for Sensitive Skin

Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray

$36 at Sephora

Here's another classic formula, as recommended by Yang. It has a temperature-control technology that lowers the temperature of makeup in order to keep it from fading, cracking, or smudging. The formula is oil-free and suitable for all skin types.

Are There Alcohol-Free Setting Sprays?

Yes, there are alcohol-free setting spray formulas and they're typically more hydrating than their counterparts. But, Elias-Foeillet says formulas that contain alcohol usually perform better. "The ingredient that really makes the difference is the alcohol," she says. "Alcohol-based setting sprays tend to be more effective. They have more staying power." Think of setting spray like hair spray. Those that contain alcohol tend to provide more hold, though they can be drying to the hair.

Make Up For Ever Mist & Fix 24HR Hydrating Setting Spray

$35 at Sephora

If you're looking to avoid alcohol altogether, try this one from Make Up For Ever. It's formulated especially for people with dry skin. It actually increases the skin's hydration and boosts oxygenation, which makes the complexion look bright and radiant.

Byrdie Tip

Before using an alcohol-based setting spray, apply a hydrating skincare product as a base to prevent the skin from drying out.

FAQ

• Do you apply setting spray before or after makeup?

  Setting spray is applied after makeup as it allows everything underneath to dry and set. However, there are instances where you may want to apply it before makeup or between each step. If it's super humid, you're going to be in the rain, or you simply don't want your makeup to budge, the more setting spray, the better.

• How many times should you spray setting spray?

  You can apply setting spray either after putting on a full face of makeup or after each step (eyeshadow, foundation, etc.). If applying after a full face of makeup, two spritzes of setting spray should do the trick.

• Should you shake your setting spray?

  Yes. Shaking the bottle of setting spray before spritzing allows the ingredients to evenly distribute so they go on on without looking splotchy.

• Do you have to wait for setting spray to dry?

  After applying, it's best to allow your setting spray to dry naturally on the face for a few minutes so the makeup doesn't smudge or run. Celebrity makeup artist, Patrick Ta, made fanning the finished makeup look a thing with his Major Glow Setting Fan, which can help your setting spray dry down quicker. Using your hands as a fan can work in a pinch, too.