Searching for the best setting spray out there? You’re in the right place. Your fellow beauty obsessives have come through with their recommendations of their faves, helping you separate the ultimate must-haves from the absolute no-gos.
If you’re reading this and wondering ‘what does setting spray do?’, we’re about to shine a light on this face-finishing fave. From how to use setting spray to a roundup of the very best setting sprays for your skin type, we’ve got the lowdown on how to keep your makeup looking snatched from the minute you spritz until the minute you decide to remove.
Keep reading for the best setting sprays, as tried, tested, and crowned by our customers.
What is setting spray?
If you’re new to the setting spray game, you might be questioning whether a finishing mist is just another unnecessary step in your makeup routine. We’re here to break it to you, it’s not. A good setting spray can not only enhance the overall appearance of your makeup, but it can prolong its wear more effectively than any other product out there. This liquid-based formula is infused with ingredients that lock your makeup in place for that freshly applied look all day long, without the dreaded creasing, smudging, or fading. Depending on the setting spray you go for, they can also be used to give your makeup different finishes, ranging from glow-boosted and dewy to ultra matte.
How do you use setting spray?
While setting spray can be used as a primer for a dewy base, they are typically applied as the final step in your makeup routine. For the best results, shake your spray of choice to activate the formula, and then hold the bottle approximately 8-10 inches away from the face. Spray evenly across your face and neck to lock your base products into place and refresh the skin. Allow your spritzed skin to dry naturally without touching it, as this can cause your makeup to smudge.
Are there different setting sprays for different skin types?
Yes! Thanks to the chunky number of mists on the market, there’s one out there for every skin type. If you’ve got sensitive skin, opt for unscented, lightweight, non-sticky formulas, as these won’t irritate or dry out your complexion. Dry skin will benefit from a hydrating or dewy finish setting spray, as this will help to boost and maintain moisture levels. For the acne-prone and oily skin guys and gals, get your hands on a mattifying setting spray, as this will control shine, absorb excess oil, and keep your base balanced.
The best setting sprays on BEAUTY BAY
From the hydrating glow-getters to the ultra-mattifying must-haves, we’ve rounded up the settings sprays that aren’t just a want, but a need. But don’t just take our word for it – we’ve made sure they’re approved (and loved) by our very own BEAUTY BAY customers, too.
By BEAUTY BAY Set It Don’t Regret It Mattifying Setting Mist
A great choice for oily and combination skin, the By BEAUTY BAY Set It Don’t Regret It Mattifying Setting Mist banishes shine and leaves a mattified finish. It’s also ideal for those with mature skin, thanks to its weightless, breathable formula that doesn’t settle into fine lines. Locking your makeup in place for up to 12 hours, this mist promises to keep your makeup fresh from day to night.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Perfect”
Perfect! I have an oily skin and this spray keeps the make up on fleek all day long. And the price is really worth it.
M. P.
“Great setting spray!”
Was very great, it felt more like a mist being applied to your face so it dried quickly and kept my makeup set all day.
Ellie
“Mattifying yet hydrating”
This makes my makeup last all day. I’m a matte girly but do have dryish skin, which is why I love this spray as it keeps my skin matte but hydrated and gets rid of any cakey-ness.
Agape M.
e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray
If you’ve got dry skin, you’ll love the e.l.f. Cosmetics Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray. Infused with a hydrating blend of 5% aloe, hyaluronic acid, squalane, and green tea seed oil, this setting spray is all about creating a nourished, fresh, and dewy finish. This ultra-fine spray not only sets your finished look in place but can be used in between your makeup steps for the ultimate hydration hit.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Dewy Skin”
Melts makeup into skin and makes everything look very natural.
Helen N.
“Wow!”
Such a nice mist and makes your makeup blend in together like a dream!
Maja B.
“Amazing”
Amazing, keeps the skin really hydrated and healthy looking!
Lia S.
The Beauty Crop Oui Cherie Dual-Phase Setting Mist
For the beauty-bargain seekers out there, The Beauty Crop’s Oui Cherie Dual-Phase Setting Mist needs to be on your radar. At a super affordable price, this cherry-inspired setting mist not only sets your glam but cares for your skin while doing so. Ideal for dry and dull skin, this mist is bursting with cherry extract, brightening vitamin C, and soothing chamomile to hydrate the skin and minimise the appearance of pores. Glowing, refreshed skin for the win.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Perfect for longevity”
Perfect as both a setting spray and refresher throughout the day to keep makeup dewy and not looking dry. Reasonably priced too.
Aiza A.
“Glowing”
Leaves face very glowing and makes the makeup last a lifetime
Rhianna K.
“Love this”
Really fine mist, smells amazing and makeup doesn’t budge all day
Lisa K.
ICONIC London Prep-Set-Glow Shimmer Spray
Providing a glow like no other, the ICONIC London Prep-Set Glow Shimmer Spray is one you’ll be adding to your basket time and time again. Adding a radiant, glossy veil to your skin with every spritz, the only downside of this shimmering setting spray is the glow skin envy you’ll inflict on everyone around you. Another great choice for dry and dull skin, it’s packed with skin-boosting, hydrating ingredients to ensure your skin stays as healthy as it looks.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“My favourite setting spray ever!”
Love the glow this spray gives me, and I got so many compliments on my skin. This is now part of my daily makeup routine from natural to night out
Kerry F.
“Amazing!”
This gives you the glowy finish we all love! I spray a generous amount on my chest and legs, can’t get enough!
Gemma K.
“This is the secret to a beautiful base”
This spray is everything!!! I love it under makeup, in between and on top!! It’s the best thing ever! Especially paired with the Underglow primer!
Sheniz A.
Anastasia Beverly Hills Dewy Set Setting Spray
Post-holiday skin has never been simpler with the Anastasia Beverly Hills Dewy Set Setting Spray. In a gentle, water-based formula, this refreshing spray hydrates dry skin, leaving a smooth, refreshed, and radiant finish. If you prefer a more dewy, less shimmery effect, don’t be fooled by this setting spray’s sparkling exterior. It’s free of shimmer, leaving a healthy glow that will fool people into thinking it’s natural.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Smells amazing!”
So refreshing and sets makeup in place all day, perfect for blending in with makeup and setting with! This is my second bottle purchased and will be taking on holiday with me
Amirah R.
“Skin feels refreshed”
Leaves skin feeling refreshed and looking glowy all day.
Sophie P.
“Does exactly what it’s supposed to do”
Amazing setting spray gives a dewy finish, (ideal for dry skin like mine). Scent is gorgeous. Makeup stayed on all day and night.
Deirdre E.
Makeup Revolution Conceal & Define Infinite Fixing Spray
Makeup Revolution is loved for its high-quality makeup that doesn’t break the bank, and their Conceal & Define Infinite Fixing Spray is no exception. Ideal for mature skin thanks to its ultra-lightweight, ultra-fine formula, this setting mist keeps your makeup in tip-top condition all day long. Slip it into your routine before makeup, after makeup, or during the day for on-the-go setting.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Love this!”
Great setting spray, smells great! Love the Revolution range!
Lyndsay M.
“Best setting spray I’ve tried”
I apply this before foundation and after and my make up stays put it’s brilliant. Smells nice too.
Peggy911
“Love this fixing spray”
Love this fixing spray. Makes my makeup last all day and has a lovely matte finish without looking dry or washed out.
Sian G.
Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
If you want your makeup to withstand whatever the day (and night) might throw at you, you need the Urban Decay All Nighter Long Lasting Makeup Setting Spray. Powered by a micro fine mist formula and patented Temperature Control Technology that works to lower the temperature of your makeup, this hardworking setting spray grips onto your makeup with unwavering staying power. Oily or combination skin? Hot, humid, cold, or windy weather? Not a problem.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“Unbeatable”
Genuinely cannot find another setting spray that works as well as this. Makeup lasts all day/night, even through sweat / rain. So good.
Jade A.
“Excellent setting spray”
Every day and for nights out use. Really light and dries quickly with no issues. Haven’t had to reapply makeup throughout the night….best one I have tried yet and good amount of product.
Bri123
“LIFE CHANGER!!”
This spray has a lovely mist and my makeup lasts all day even when I workout. The products value is good for money as well!!
Bella
NYX Professional Makeup Dewy Finish Makeup Setting Spray
Combining unnatural staying power with an ultra-natural finish, the NYX Professional Makeup Dewy Finish Setting Spray promises to seal your looks in place for the longest lasting makeup looks. Thanks to a super lightweight formula, this spray gives the skin a comfortable, breathable, and dewy glow you won’t be able to get enough. Dry skin types, this one’s for you.
What BEAUTY BAY shoppers think…
“10/10”
Literally so good for the price and it does the job. leaves your makeup looking dewy and glowyyyy
Ma.ah
“Super”
Amazing performance and really worthy in the quality/price ratio. After using it I had to ride my bike under the rain for 15 minutes and my make up did not move at all.
Noeli
“My favourite”
I spray this on before applying makeup and after and leaves my complexion looking super dewy and hydrated. Great product!
Livi
