Do Makeup Setting Sprays Really Work? I Tried 5 to Find Out
"Do makeup setting sprays really hold your look in place? I tested 5 popular sprays to see which ones actually deliver."
We've all seen the makeup gurus give their final spritz of setting spray and say, “This will lock it all in place.” But do these magical mists really live up to the hype? I decided to put five popular setting sprays to the test — and here's everything you need to know before adding one to your cart.
If you've ever ended the day looking like your makeup ghosted you by noon, this one’s for you.
So… What Exactly Does Makeup Setting Spray Do?
Setting spray is like hairspray for your face — a mist that seals your makeup and helps it stay put through sweat, oil, humidity, and life in general. Some sprays are hydrating, some are mattifying, and others claim to do it all.
But does it actually make a difference? I used each of the sprays below for a full day, including outdoor walks, meals, errands, and the occasional face-touching (oops).
The 5 Makeup Setting Sprays I Tested
Here’s the line-up — a mix of high-end and budget-friendly favorites:
- Urban Decay All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray
- Maybelline Lasting Fix Makeup Setting Spray
- MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Makeup Setting Spray
- NYX Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray
- e.l.f. Stay All Night Micro-Fine Makeup Setting Mist
Let’s break it down — product by product.
1. Urban Decay All-Nighter Makeup Setting Spray
Price: ₹2,000 approx.
Finish: Natural-matte
Lasted for: 10+ hours
Verdict: Worth the hype!
I started with this cult classic and let’s just say — it delivered. My makeup didn’t budge even after a hot commute and a long work day. It kept oil at bay while still letting my skin breathe. No patchiness or fading. It's a bit pricey, but a few sprays go a long way.
Final score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
2. Maybelline Lasting Fix Makeup Setting Spray
Price: ₹1800 approx.
Finish: Matte
Lasted for: 7–8 hours
Verdict: Not a Great budget option but worth it.
This one was a pleasant surprise. It gave a true matte finish without making my skin feel tight or dry. By the end of the day, I had a little shine on my nose, but the rest of my makeup looked fresh.
Final score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
3. MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Makeup Setting Spray
Price: ₹1,900 approx.
Finish: Dewy
Lasted for: 6–7 hours
Verdict: Hydrating but not heavy-duty
MAC Fix+ feels amazing on the skin — it’s super refreshing, and it melts powder beautifully into the skin for a more natural look. However, as a long-wear setting spray, it’s not the strongest. Perfect for dry skin or as a makeup refresher.
Final score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
4. NYX Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray
Price: ₹875 approx.
Finish: Matte
Lasted for: 6–7 hours
Verdict: Decent for the price
If you want a drugstore spray that controls oil decently, this one’s solid. My foundation stayed intact, but it didn’t hold up as well around the nose and chin. Good for short events or casual days.
Final score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐☆
5. E.l.f. Stay All Night Micro-Fine Makeup Setting Mist
Price: ₹850 approx.
Finish: Natural
Lasted for: 7–8 hours
Verdict: Impressive and underrated!
This one felt super lightweight and had the finest mist of them all. It gave me a soft, natural finish — not too dewy, not too matte. Plus, it kept my makeup in place for a full workday without feeling sticky.
Final score: ⭐⭐⭐⭐⭐
My Final Thoughts: Do Makeup Setting Sprays Actually Work?
YES — if you use the right one for your skin type and needs.
Here’s what I learned:
- Oily skin? Go for matte finish sprays like Urban Decay or NYX.
- Dry or sensitive skin? Hydrating sprays like MAC Fix+ or e.l.f. work best.
- Budget-conscious? Maybelline and e.l.f. both perform impressively for their price.
But remember — setting spray is a final step, not a miracle worker. Prepping your skin, using good base products, and applying makeup in thin layers still matter the most.
Bonus Tip: How to Make the Most of Your Setting Spray
- Spritz it on your beauty blender before applying foundation.
- Use it to foil eyeshadows for intense pigment.
- Refresh your look mid-day with a light mist and gentle pat-down.
In the end, setting spray isn’t just a “nice-to-have” — it’s a secret weapon that can take your makeup from momentary to marathon. Whether you’re glamming up for a full day at work, a night out, or a special occasion, the right setting spray can be the invisible shield that keeps your masterpiece intact.
After testing five popular picks, one thing’s clear: not all setting sprays are created equal, but the good ones? Total game-changers. Think of them as your makeup's loyal BFF — quietly working in the background so you can slay the day without second-guessing your look.
So the next time you finish your last makeup step, don’t skip the spritz — your future, flawless self will thank you.
FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS
Q1. Do makeup setting sprays really make makeup last longer?
A1. Yes, setting sprays can significantly extend the wear time of your makeup. They work by creating a thin, protective layer that helps lock your products in place, preventing fading, creasing, or melting—especially in humid or oily conditions.
Q2. Which type of makeup setting spray is best for oily skin?
A2. For oily skin, a matte finish setting spray is ideal. Look for sprays labeled “oil control” or “long-lasting,” such as the Urban Decay All Nighter or NYX Matte Finish. These help absorb excess oil and reduce shine throughout the day.
Q3. Can I use makeup setting spray instead of primer?
A3. While both setting spray and primer help with makeup longevity, they serve different purposes. Primer preps the skin for smoother application, while setting spray seals the finished look. For best results, use both in your routine rather than one in place of the other.
Q4. How do I apply makeup setting spray correctly?
A4. Hold the setting spray about 6–8 inches away from your face and mist in an “X” and “T” formation. Let it air-dry naturally. Avoid spraying too close or using too much, as it can make your makeup look wet or sticky.
Q5. Is makeup setting spray necessary for everyday makeup?
A5. Not always — but if you want your makeup to last through long hours, hot weather, or special events, a setting spray can make a noticeable difference. It’s especially useful for those with oily skin or those who tend to touch their face often.
Stay tuned for more such informative & interesting articles!
