Set, Save, and Serve Looks With Setting Sprays

When you spend valuable time and energy crafting the perfect makeup look, it’s only natural to want it to last. Setting spray helps make sure it does. Makeup setting spray can help lock in your makeup, prevent fading and smudging, and extend the longevity of your look. But in order to get the best results, it’s important to choose the best setting spray for your needs—and that can sometimes feel tricky, given how many different formulas there are to choose from. We’re here to help simplify your search. Ahead, we’ll explain what makeup setting spray is and share our top setting spray recommendations for standout looks that last.

What Is Setting Spray?

Setting spray is a type of liquid makeup product designed to help extend the longevity of your makeup. It typically comes in a spray bottle—hence the name—and is meant to be spritzed on your face as the final step in your makeup routine. In addition to helping your makeup last longer, some setting sprays can help minimize shine, give your makeup a glowy finish, or hydrate your skin. It all depends on the formula you’re using (more on that in a bit).

Primer vs. Setting Spray

While both primers and setting sprays can help extend the life of your makeup, they serve different purposes. A face primer is typically applied before makeup to help smooth the skin's texture, reduce the appearance of pores, and provide “grip” for your products to adhere to. Setting spray, on the other hand, is typically used after applying makeup. Its purpose is to lock in your look and prevent your products from fading, transferring, or smudging throughout the day.

Our Lineup: Types of Setting Sprays

Whether you prefer a matte finish, glowy skin, or want something in between, the right setting spray can help you achieve your desired end result. Ahead, we’re sharing details on the different setting sprays we offer so you can find the best formula for your needs.

The Face Glue Setting Spray

Ensuring your makeup lasts all day can feel like a challenge, but this setting spray makes it effortless. The waterproof formula forms a thin, non-sticky film over your makeup to extend wear and shield your makeup from external stressors (ahem, sweat) that could cause it to transfer or fade. We suggest using it alongside The Face Glue Gripping Makeup Primer for all-day hydration and up to 24 hours of fade, transfer, and smudge-resistant makeup wear.

Matte Finish Setting Spray

If you have oily or shiny skin, give this mattifying setting spray a try. The breathable formula instantly absorbs excess oil and helps control shine for a smooth, matte finish. Plus, it locks makeup into place for up to 16 hours and helps prevent your products from settling into fine lines.

Dewy Finish Setting Spray

Those who favor a dewy, fresh-faced finish should consider checking out the Dewy Setting Spray. The niacinamide-infused formula applies easily, dries translucent, and leaves the skin looking dewy, refreshed, and healthy.

Radiant Finish Setting Spray

Get your glow on and keep your makeup in place with this makeup setting spray, which contains warm-toned micro-pearls in its formula. The spray’s lustrous champagne and gold-toned pigments are universally flattering and leave the skin with a natural-looking, shimmery glow.

Plump Finish Setting Spray

With a blend of five electrolytes and vitamins, the Plump Finish Setting Spray is among our best setting sprays for those looking to refresh their makeup routine. The hydrating formula leaves the skin looking moisturized and healthy—never greasy—and it helps keep makeup in place for up to 24 hours.

Marshmellow Setting Spray

This multi-tasking makeup setting spray does it all. The 10-in-1 formula mattifies, smooths, reduces shine, minimizes the appearance of pores, and leaves the skin looking fresh. Plus, it helps lock in your makeup for up to 16 hours of fade, smudge, and transfer-resistant wear. The formula’s sweet smell is just the cherry on top.

Bare With Me Multitasking Makeup Spray

Most setting sprays are meant to be used at the end of your makeup routine. This one can be used before it even starts. The multi-tasking formula helps prep and prime the skin, locks makeup into place, and can be used throughout the day to keep your makeup looking fresh. Another bonus: the aloe- and cucumber-infused formula is suitable for all skin types—including sensitive skin.