Setting Spray vs. Fixing Spray: The Essential Guide to Long-Lasting Makeup
It's a common misconception that setting spray locks in makeup, but here's the truth—setting spray doesn't actually set makeup.
I want to discuss a topic that can be frustrating for makeup enthusiasts and pros alike: the difference between setting sprays and fixing sprays.
Most people don't even know there's a difference. If you feel like your setting spray doesn't make your makeup last long, it's because you were actually looking for a fixing spray.
Setting sprays are designed to hydrate your makeup, causing it to oxidize and blend into your skin for a natural, skin-like finish. But if you're looking to lock in your makeup and make it last all day—or even make it waterproof, rub-proof, and sweat-proof—what you actually need is a fixing spray.
Understanding the Difference:
Setting Spray: Hydrates and improves the look of your makeup. It instantly melts powders into your skin and gives you that dewy finish. It's not meant for longevity.
Fixing Spray: Formulated to make your makeup last for hours, adding an invisible film that can make your makeup waterproof, rub-proof, and sweat-proof. Think of it as "hairspray for your face." Many entertainers and drag queens used to rely on actual hairspray for long-lasting makeup! Let's be clear: I'm not suggesting using hair spray on your face—many fixing sprays on the market are now easily accessible.
What to Look For in a Fixing Spray:
Fixing sprays often come in aerosol cans; you'll see ingredients like butane or alcohol listed first. These components are crucial because they help the product dry quickly and evenly distribute over your makeup, ensuring it stays put throughout the day.
My Top Fixing Spray Recommendations:
1. One Size ON 'TIL DAWN Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray:
Fun Fact: Was used on Beyonce for Renaissance World Tour
Key Ingredients: Butane, Alcohol Denat., Isobutane, Magnesium Carbonate.
Why It Works:
Butane & Isobutane: These propellants disperse the product in a fine mist, ensuring even application without heavy spots. They evaporate quickly, leaving your makeup with a lightweight, long-lasting finish.
Alcohol Denat.: This helps the spray dry quickly on your skin, locking your makeup in place with a matte finish.
Magnesium Carbonate: Acts as an absorbent, soaking up excess oil to maintain that matte finish throughout the day.
Fun Fact: Used to seal FX effects like bald caps and prosthetics for tv and film
Key Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Diisopropyl Adipate.
Why It Works:
Alcohol Denat.: Ensures quick drying, locking everything in place.
Diisopropyl Adipate: Forms a smooth, flexible film over your makeup, sealing it in place for long wear. Common among special effects makeup artists.
Fun Fact: A great affordable drugstore option
Key Ingredients: Alcohol Denat., Dimethyl Ether, VA/Crotonates/Vinyl Neodecanoate Copolymer.
Why It Works:
Dimethyl Ether: Propellant that delivers the product in a fine, even mist, covering your makeup with a protective layer.
VA/Crotonates/Vinyl Neodecanoate Copolymer: This polymer forms a flexible barrier over your makeup, making it rub-proof, waterproof, and sweat-proof, ensuring it stays intact in various conditions.
What About Hydrating Setting Sprays?
If you want a fresh, dewy finish, my go-to hydrating setting sprays are:
Key Ingredient: Aqua/Water
When choosing a hydrating setting spray, I always look for a fine mist resembling a veil of hydration. I want something that softly mists my face, similar to an aerosol, without the sensation of thick, aggressive raindrops. A thin mist ensures that my makeup stays in place while providing that skin-like finish we all love.
The Bottom Line:
Being an educated consumer means knowing exactly what you're buying. If you want to hydrate and freshen up your makeup, reach for a setting spray. But if you want long-lasting wear, a fixing spray is what you need. Keep an eye on those ingredients—knowing what's in the bottle will help you choose the best product for your needs.
