Is Setting Spray Really Necessary?

Professional makeup artists swear by a few hidden tricks, and setting spray is definitely one of their go-tos. Once you've completed your makeup, a quick spritz of setting spray can seal everything in place, giving you a smooth, long-lasting finish—whether you prefer a dewy glow or a matte look. Want to learn more about how this essential makeup product can benefit you? We're breaking down all the key details about setting spray, from what it is to the different types available and how to use it.

What Is Setting Spray?

As the name suggests, setting spray is a delicate mist used to secure your makeup, ensuring everything stays intact, including your foundation, blush, highlighter, contour, and even eyeshadow and brows.

“Setting spray is the finishing touch that seals everything in,” explains editorial makeup artist Tonya Riner. “I love it for the sense of confidence it provides, but most importantly, for the flawless finish it gives the skin.”

She recommends using setting sprays sparingly, as they’re especially useful on days when you need your makeup to last. They're a lifesaver for special occasions—like weddings or parties—as well as for everyday situations where makeup might fade throughout the day.

Advantages of Using Setting Spray

• Helps makeup last longer
• Prevents smudging, makeup meltdown, and fading color
• Gives either a radiant glow or a matte finish
• Less noticeable on the skin compared to setting powders
• Perfect for normal to dry skin types needing added hydration

Various Types of Setting Sprays

There are several setting spray formulas available, each designed for different effects. The most common ones include dewy, matte, waterproof, and shimmer. Celebrity makeup artist Bryan Cantor mentions that he's not particularly fond of shimmer sprays unless you're aiming for that specific look, such as for festival makeup or Halloween.

“For those with oily, normal, or combination skin, matte or waterproof sprays are the best choice as they suit these skin types the most. It's also a good idea to finish oily areas with powder to prevent shine,” advises Cantor. “Dry skin types can benefit from waterproof or dewy sprays, but may still want to use a hydrating powder on areas like the forehead, under the eyes, and around the nose for a smooth finish.”

Mixing different formulas is also an option. For example, Riner suggests using a mattifying spray in the center of the face and a dewy spray around the edges. This way, shine-prone areas remain matte, while other parts of the face get a touch of glow.

How to Apply Setting Spray

One of the best things about setting spray is how simple it is to use. Once your makeup is complete, Cantor recommends holding the bottle about 8 to 12 inches away from your face and lightly misting.

“When applying setting spray, I like to create a ‘square’ by spraying each corner—top left, top right, bottom right, and bottom left,” says Cantor. “The right amount of spray should leave your face dewy or slightly damp, but not drenched, as overuse can cause your makeup to slide off.”

You can choose to apply the setting spray at the end of your makeup routine, or after each step. Cantor shares that he first applies all his cream and liquid products, then gives his face a spritz. Afterward, he adds powder products, sets with translucent powder, and finishes off with a final light mist. If you're dealing with oil, a quick touch-up with matte spray or setting powder can be applied to the T-zone.

5 Setting Sprays Makeup Artists Swear By

We asked Cantor and Riner which setting sprays they always keep in their kits. Here’s a look at their top picks.

• Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray: Both Riner and Cantor rave about this as one of their top setting sprays. “It strikes the perfect balance—not too dewy, not too matte,” says Riner. Cantor adds, “It hydrates, primes, and keeps your makeup intact for up to 16 hours.”
• Milk Makeup Pore Eclipse Setting Spray: Cantor recommends this one for its ability to control shine and blur pores, all while boosting makeup longevity for up to 16 hours. Plus, it’s lightweight on the skin.
• MAC Fix + Matte Setting Spray: “I reach for this on set for midday touch-ups,” Riner shares. “I spritz a little on a makeup sponge and gently press it into areas that need a refresh.”
• Morphe Continuous Prep & Set Mist: A budget-friendly option that truly works. Cantor says, “It features a unique continuous spray nozzle, unlike the typical pump. Plus, it’s loaded with ceramides, electrolytes, and antioxidants.”