What’s The Difference Between Fixing and Setting Spray?
Did you know setting sprays started in the entertainment industry?
Backstage pros used them to keep makeup intact under hot lights and long hours.
But most brands don’t teach consumers how or why to use these sprays—they just put them on shelves and let us figure it out.
That’s where beauty education comes in. I’m passionate about bridging the gap between what brands sell and what we need to know. My goal is to help you make informed choices so that makeup becomes a tool for transformation, not just a collection of products.
Setting Spray vs. Fixing Spray: What’s the Difference?
In very simple words, this is the way I would explain it to my high school niece:
SETTING SPRAY:
Makes your makeup look smooth and natural, blending everything together for a radiant finish.
FIXING SPRAY:
Locks your makeup in place, making it transfer-proof, sweat-proof, and long-lasting.
Quick Timeline of Setting and Fixing Sprays
PRE-2000s: Theater and film makeup artists used sprays like Kryolan Fixing Spray and Blue Marble Sealer to keep makeup in place—sometimes even hairspray!
2000s: Consumer-friendly sprays hit the market. MAC Fix+ (2004) hydrated and refreshed makeup, while Skindinavia’s Makeup Finishing Spray (2007) was the first widely marketed option for long wear.
2010s: Urban Decay All Nighter and drugstore sprays made makeup longevity a staple for everyone.
2020s: Social media made setting vs. fixing sprays a hot topic in beauty education.
Choosing the Right Spray
If you’re after a hydrated, dewy look, go for a setting spray. Need your makeup to last through heat, sweat, or long hours? Use a fixing spray. And yes, you can layer both—just remember, once you spray that fixing spray, it’s your final step.
Why Education Matters
It’s not just about buying products; it’s about knowing why you’re buying them. Without the right guidance, even the best products can fall short. My viral “Setting Spray vs. Fixing Spray” video opened up so many conversations, showing just how much clarity people are looking for when it comes to beauty.
The Bottom Line
There’s so much hype around beauty products but not enough education. By understanding the difference between setting and fixing sprays, you can confidently choose what fits your needs and skip what doesn’t.
Want More? I’m Back On YouTube After 10 Years!
Check out my latest video on YouTube! I go into detail about the ingredients, benefits, and things to avoid. I know they’re hyped—and trust me, they do have their place—but using them every day?
Not so much. As a professional makeup artist for TV and film, I’ve seen firsthand what they can do, but I also know what’s in them. Some of the ingredients are not ideal for daily wear.
I break it all down in detail on my YouTube channel. Don’t forget to hit subscribe while you’re there—I’m so excited for my YouTube Journey!
