Fool-Proof Setting Sprays

Your choice of setting spray is a crucial final step to what will be a long-lasting, blurred and transfer-proof makeup look. Technique and product combination also plays a huge role; no matter the step in your make-up routine, whatever the occasion, day or night, setting spray is the key to holding your make-up together. Not all setting spray is made the same. As with many other products we use in our day-to-day, they have to cater to us personally, and also work in conjunction with our skin. Some sprays allow for an ultra matte-finish, usually for oil control, whereas some people prefer a more dewy and “lived-in” look. Whichever finish you’re going for, setting spray ensures your makeup lasts for hours and lessens the chance of it melting or being ruined by the conditions of your surroundings. Use a setting spray as the final step post-make-up application to give you a seamless layer of protection. For a stronger hold and a more seamless base, use your spray between each make-up step.

Here are our top picks:

Kryolan Fixing Spray

Kryolan fixing spray has been around for a while, particularly used for stage make-up and body painting; it has recently become popular in regular make-up routines. The fixing spray creates an invisible protective film over makeup, extending its life. It is vegan and fragrance-free but does contain alcohol. Your makeup will withstand harsh exposure whilst living up to its claim of being ‘smudge and rub proof’, which is why it’s a favourite.

ONE/SIZE Mini On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray

One Size is a newer brand in the beauty world that is already making an impact. On ‘Til Dawn is a mattifying waterproof setting spray that gives you a “light-as-air” finish. The setting spray absorbs oil and tightens pores, resulting in what is claimed to be a ‘blurred, flawless, matte finish.’ On ‘Til Dawn may be mattifying, but it melts right into your skin and holds all day!

Milk Hydro Grip Set Spray

Milk Makeup boasts of the the Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray’s setting and locking power, giving your makeup up to 12 hours of flawlessness. Just like the primer, this spray grips your makeup, whilst also giving it a ‘breathable, glassy glow.’ The Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray is vegan, alcohol-free and fragrance-free, making it great if you’d prefer something more mild on your skin.

Rare Beauty Always an Optimist Spray

‘Boost the life of your foundation’ with Rare Beauty’s ‘Always an optimist 4-in-1 Mist. The spray consists of water-based actives and nourishing oils, shake the bottle to mix the layers and create a calming and nourishing setting spray. Your makeup will have a ‘natural, radiant finish without feeling greasy or sticky.’

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray

Last but the furthest thing from the least; it’s a firm and well-trusted favourite in beauty spaces – the Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray by Charlotte Tilbury! This coveted setting spray is second to none in achieving that blurred and truly airbrushed finish. It creates an invisible shield that seals in and protects your make-up; keeping it transfer-proof. The Airbrush Flawless setting spray is also intensely hydrating, being made up of ‘smoothing aloe vera’ and ‘hydrating Japanese green tea’; both complexion-enriching and deeply nourishing ingredients.