Is Setting Spray Really Necessary?

By Jasmine Torres, Makeup & Artistry | International Institute of Beauty

There’s something undeniably satisfying about finishing a makeup look with a generous spritz of setting spray. That misty veil, that final flourish it feels official, like you’re sealing the deal. But here’s the real question: is setting spray necessary, or has it become another step we’ve adopted out of habit?

Let’s lift the lid on this misty mystery and explore whether setting spray is an essential beauty tool or simply a pretty placebo.

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What Is Setting Spray?

Setting spray is a fine mist designed to lock your makeup in place. Think of it as the final topcoat to your beauty masterpiece helping to extend wear, control shine, and sometimes even enhance your skin’s finish. From matte to dewy, there’s a formula to suit every look and skin type.

Unlike facial mists (which hydrate), or setting powders (which mattify and control oil), setting sprays are primarily used to fix makeup keeping it from slipping, fading, or transferring throughout the day.

But how much of that promise is real, and how much is just marketing magic?

What Setting Spray Can Do

When formulated well and used correctly, a setting spray can absolutely elevate your makeup. Here's what it can do:

• Extend wear time: Especially helpful during long days, warm weather, or special occasions.

• Enhance finish: Dewy sprays can boost glow; matte sprays reduce shine.

• Reduce cakey appearance: Helps powders blend into the skin, softening harsh lines.

• Lock in layers: Ideal for multi step makeup routines involving primers, foundation, powders, and creams.

  
  

But Do You Need It?

This is where it gets personal. The need for setting spray depends entirely on your skin type, lifestyle, and makeup routine. Let’s look at when it does and doesn’t earn its place.

When Setting Spray Is a Game Changer

1. You're Wearing Full Glam or Layered Makeup

If your makeup routine involves foundation, concealer, contour, highlighter and powder, setting spray is brilliant for melting everything together and giving a skin like finish. It prevents the dreaded cakey look.

2. You're in a Hot, Humid or Long Wear Environment

From weddings to summer festivals, setting spray can be your best friend. It holds your look in place and minimises transfer especially helpful when you're hugging relatives or dancing until midnight.

3. You’re On Camera

Photography and filming can wash you out or cause makeup to shift under lights. Setting spray can help your base stay flawless under pressure.

4. You Have Oily or Combination Skin

A matte finish setting spray can significantly delay shine and reduce the need for blotting or reapplying powder throughout the day.

When You Might Not Need It

1. You're Going for a Minimal or Natural Look

If your everyday routine is a light BB cream, mascara, and a swipe of blush, your makeup may not need the extra reinforcement of a setting spray.

2. You Have Dry or Sensitive Skin

Some setting sprays especially those containing alcohol can be drying. If you already struggle with dryness, you’ll need a hydrating formula, or you might be better off skipping it altogether.

3. You're Only Out for a Few Hours

Heading to brunch? Running errands? You probably won’t notice a huge difference in wear without it. Save your spray for when it really matters.

Choosing the Right Setting Spray

Like all makeup, one size never fits all. The right setting spray should work with your skin type and your desired finish.

💧 Hydrating Sprays

Great for dry or mature skin. They soften makeup, reduce dryness, and leave a radiant finish.

Try:

• MAC Fix+

• Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray

  
  

✨ Dewy Finish Sprays

Perfect for those who love a glowing, lit from within look. These sprays bring life back to matte foundations.

Try:

• Tatcha Luminous Dewy Skin Mist

• Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray (Radiance)

  
  

🌬️ Mattifying Sprays

Ideal for oily or acne prone skin, these sprays help control shine and prevent makeup meltdown.

Try:

• Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte

• NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray

  
  

🌿 Natural Finish Sprays

If you want something that just holds your makeup in place without altering the finish, these are a safe bet.

Try:

• Urban Decay All Nighter (Original)

• Morphe Continuous Setting Mist

  
  

How to Use It Like a Pro

Let’s be honest some of us spray like we’re watering the garden, others barely mist. But there is a technique to getting it right.

Jasmine’s Pro Tips:

• Shake before use: Especially if the formula contains shimmer or skincare ingredients.

• Hold the bottle 20 to 25cm from your face: Too close, and you risk splotches.

• Spray in an “X” and “T” shape: This ensures even coverage across the entire face.

• Let it dry naturally: Don’t fan it in; allow it to settle for best results.

• Use between layers: Light misting between steps (like after foundation and then again at the end) can help your base last longer.

  
  

Setting Spray vs Setting Powder: Do You Need Both?

This isn’t a one or the other situation. In fact, using both together can be the ultimate power combo.

• Setting powder helps mattify, control oil, and set cream products in place. Ideal for targeted use (under eyes, T zone).

• Setting spray helps lock in the entire look, softens powdery textures, and adds longevity.

Final Thoughts

So, is setting spray really necessary?

Here’s the truth: it’s not essential for everyone, but it can absolutely elevate your makeup game when used correctly. Whether you’re glamming up for a night out, working long hours under studio lights, or simply want to keep your makeup fresh through the day setting spray is a worthwhile investment.

But remember, it’s not about blindly following trends. It’s about understanding your skin, your makeup, and your lifestyle. Choose the right formula, apply it with purpose, and you’ll see why so many professionals never skip this final step.

A good setting spray doesn’t just lock your makeup in it locks you into your confidence, knowing your look will last from morning coffee to midnight cocktails.

Until next time, keep setting your standard high (and your makeup higher).