Liquid Setting Sprays

Setting spray is the hairspray of makeup – preventing it from smudging, creasing and fading throughout the day. Setting spray is normally a mix of water, glycerin, oils and alcohol. The water and oils mix with the makeup on your face, making it more resistant to what the day throws your way. The glycerin and water also work to lock in moisture, making your face look hydrated all day long.

Setting spray is always applied as the last part of doing your face. Once you’re happy with your look, the setting spray goes on.

1. Shake the bottle: This helps prevent your spray from going on without dripping or blotches. Some ingredients can sometimes separate inside the bottle, so give it a good shake before your spray!
2. Spray in an X- and T-motion: Hold your bottle about 6-8 inches from your face (the distance varies depending on the product, so make sure to read the instructions), to optimise your coverage first spray in an X motion, then in a T motion.
3. Let it dry: Before pulling any clothes over your head, hugging a friend or heading out the door, make sure your setting spray has completely dried to avoid any smears or stains.

Just like any other skincare product, choosing the right setting spray depends on your skin type. Dry skin needs a setting spray that hydrates and really locks in moisture. Alternatively for oily or acne-prone skin, a matte spray that absorbs excess oil is ideal. If your skin is sensitive, it’s a good idea to opt for an alcohol-free product to avoid irritation.

If you want your look to last, setting spray plays a pretty important part. Just like a topcoat keeps your painted nails from chipping, or hairspray helps your hairstyle stay gorgeous, setting spray protects the makeup look you’ve worked hard to create. With that said, if you’re not spending a long time on your makeup routine, setting spray might be a bit excessive, but that’s up to you to decide.