Makeup Pros Reveal Their Top Setting Sprays That Really Last (2025)

Earning our top pick overall, the All Nighter Setting Spray from Urban Decay has been an industry original and a staple for professional makeup artists for years. “Forever a holy grail, this setting spray is known for its longevity and ability to extend makeup looks,” Lanice explains. The setting spray is also “an essential” in Spickard’s makeup kit. “The formula saturates the face and creates a waterproof, budge-proof layer over makeup that really locks in without creating that ‘crunchy’ or tight feeling on the skin,” Spickard explains. Lanice notes that the brand has expanded its range to include a glowy setting spray, mattifying setting spray, and even a vitamin C-infused setting spray, “with the same waterproof and smudge-free formula we love.”

What we think: “I have this in a mini for travel and swear by it. It’s my finishing touch when headed to big events (namely friends’ weddings) and ensures my makeup lasts through hours of dancing (and happy tears). It does have a subtle smell and is quite wet, but it’s well worth it in my opinion!” explains Prevention Deputy Editor, Emily Goldman.

It’s also a go-to for Prevention Associate Commerce Editor, Hannah Jeon. “This setting spray is my favorite—it really helps my makeup stay on and look fresh all day! It also feels super lightweight and refreshing on my face when I spray it on, and dries quickly with no sticky or greasy residue at all,” she explains.

A new release from Essence, this affordable setting spray packs a major punch. It’s formulated with hyaluronic acid for hydration and is free of oil and alcohol, making it suitable for both dry and oily skin types.

What we think: I recently tried this product and was super impressed by the formula—especially at such a great price. I love trying out new makeup products, so I had quite a few setting sprays to compare this to, but it did not disappoint. I appreciate the super fine mist that is often hard to find outside of an aerosol container, and I love the way it melts into my powder for a super natural look. It also left my skin feeling hydrated and comfortable. While the lasting power didn’t quite compare to some other long-wearing formulas, it still did a good job of keeping my makeup in place and is a great pick for those whose main goal is to add a bit of hydration and get rid of the “powdery” look.

“This recently became a personal favorite! For just a fraction of the price of other setting sprays, this formula is a top contender,” Lanice explains of this pick from L’Oréal Paris. “Because it’s an aerosol, it dries instantly for a natural glow, setting the entire face.”

What reviewers think: “I used this in the rain, in a snow storm, and in the heat. It stands the test of temperature. I love the semi-matte finish it gives. The nozzle is easy to use. I love the price and will stock up on it. The only drawback is the strong floral perfume scent and taste. If they ever come out with an unscented version of this setting spray, it won’t be in stock for long,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “It removes the powdery finish of setting powder and brings back a skin-like glow to your face. The can has fallen several times, but the aeresol cannot be beaten!”

Fenty Beauty by Rihanna is known for its amazing products, and this setting spray is no exception. The long-wearing formula boasts an ultra-fine mist fueled by InvisiFlex Shield, which, according to the brand, forms an “undetectable veil” on the skin, which protects against environmental stressors, sets makeup, and extends wear. Plus it’s super lightweight.

What we think: “I recently used this setting spray and am obsessed. It’s super lightweight but packs major staying power,” Goldman explains. “One spritz gently mists evenly distributed product across your face, without it feeling sticky or too wet. This is definitely my new go-to!”

This setting spray from One/Size has been all the rage lately amongst the online beauty community—and for good reason. “Rain, sweat, humidity, or snow, One/Size has you covered!” Lanice says. “It absorbs oil ... [and has] 16-hour waterproof coverage! You can’t beat that!” Spickard adds that this product is his “holy-grail setting spray,” noting that the aerosol spray dries down quickly, “allows for super-even application without any pesky droplets.” As sprays are hard to control, sometimes your setting spray can make it onto your tresses. “Liquid formulas can hit the hairline, causing curling, frizzing, and lifting which you just don’t want,” Spickard says. This one mitigates that.

What we think: I bought into the hype and picked up this setting spray a few months ago and have not been disappointed. It sort of feels like hairspray when you first spritz it on your face, which can be a bit shocking, but once it dries down (a few seconds later), it feels undetectable on the skin. As for lasting power? It truly delivers. I have used this setting spray for 11-hour commuting work days, long nights out in Manhattan, and in all weather conditions—and my makeup always looks perfect when it’s time to remove it that evening (...or the next morning, oops).

This formula is a perfect pick for those with dry skin, according to Lanice (or for those who like a hydration boost following makeup application). It is “incredibly hydrating and soothing with ingredients like aloe vera and green tea,” Lanice explains, adding that it works equally well to set makeup at the end of your routine, as a priming mist before makeup application, or to refresh the skin throughout the day. It’s also a favorite of Spickard, who finds that it “locks in makeup beautifully.”

What we think: “After years of insisting setting sprays were superfluous, I was shocked at how well this one actually worked. I was nervous the spray would affect the finish of my makeup, but it didn’t. Plus, my makeup remained impeccable through a 10-hour work day, including two subway commutes and three meals—a true feat,” explains Prevention Senior Commerce Editor, Charlotte Lewis. Read her in-depth review here.

“While it is pricey, this is one of my favorites for mature skin,” Lanice explains. “Not only is it water resistant, it’s hydrating and blurs the appearance of pores and texture on the skin, leaving the skin flawless, radiant, and plump.”

What reviewers think: “Works well to seal in makeup with a pretty dewy finish!” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “Not much of a scent. Lasts a long time too! I use this every day and it’s lasted a few months so far! Definitely worth the money.”

Fix+ by MAC is another OG in the beauty world. This multitasking spray primes the skin before makeup application and fixes and sets makeup at the end of application for flawless-looking makeup that lasts up to 12 hours, according to the brand.

What we think: I have been a loyal user of MAC Fix+ for years now (I currently have a floral printed bottle from the MAC by Richard Quinn collaboration). I love to use this as a lightweight primer on days that don’t call for a liquid or putty primer, and I almost always use this to “fix” the look of my makeup after application. Just a few spritzes and any powdery appearance fades away into a natural radiance. I do find I need to hold the bottle a bit further from my face compared to other sprays or I end up with little blotches that I need to pat in with a sponge.

This setting mist offers 16 hours of wear, according to the brand, locking in makeup with a micro-fine mist enriched with soothing ingredients like cucumber fruit extract, aloe vera, and green tea leaf extract.

What we think: While this formula boasts a matte finish, I found the final look to be more on the natural side. It makes my skin feel very hydrated and soothed, and I like that it doesn’t have a super-distinct scent. This mist is in fact, very fine, especially for a non-aerosol container, and I’ve never had any issues with droplets landing on my face. While it doesn’t lend as much staying power as some of the more heavy-duty, waterproof options on this list, it does keep my makeup looking great throughout the workday or afternoons out running errands.

True to its name this product from Anastasia Beverly Hills effectively sets makeup with a dewy, radiant finish. The formula is water-based for a lightweight feel that doesn’t skimp on glow. Note: While the bottle is extra sparkly, the mist itself is glitter-free.

What reviewers say: “I never got into the dewy-look foundations because they would never last and basically slide off my face as the day goes on. Now, I can use my longer-wear matte products, and with this setting spray, I have an instant dewy look without any sliding off,” wrote one Amazon reviewer. “After 8-plus hours I’m still having to use makeup remover and double cleanse to remove it all—that’s how well it works! And in high heat and humidity, too. I love a dewy look, especially as I’m getting older, and long-wear matte makeup runs the risk of accentuating fine lines. With this: Zero creasing, lovely scent, and just an excellent setting spray for your makeup.”

If you want to Make It Last, you can’t go wrong with this setting spray from Milani. This three-in-one spray primes, hydrates, and sets for longer-lasting makeup with a natural finish, per the brand. It’s also formulated with nourishing ingredients like glycerin and niacinamide. This product has been a drugstore staple for a while, and the 34,000 five-star ratings on Amazon speak for themselves.

What reviewers say: “This setting spray does it all—it primes, sets, and refreshes, giving my makeup a natural, flawless finish that lasts all day. The mist is fine and evenly distributed, so it doesn’t disturb my makeup or leave any wet spots,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I love that it provides a matte finish without feeling drying, and my makeup stays in place without any fading or creasing, even on long, busy days. It’s lightweight, breathable, and has a subtle, pleasant scent that isn’t overpowering. This setting spray is a game-changer for anyone looking for reliable, long-lasting makeup—definitely a staple in my beauty collection!”

This setting spray offers a matte finish, which is great for those with oily skin or for those who prefer a completely shine-free look. It claims to be smudge-proof, transfer-resistant, and offers 16 hours of wear. Plus, it has over 76,ooo five-star ratings on Amazon.

What reviewers say: “Loved it as a final touch. I bought the matte version, and it totally elevates the whole look. Dries really fast, easy to apply, and also it’s inexpensive,” one Amazon reviewer wrote. “I really like this. I’ve had several people ask how my makeup looks like I’m not wearing powder, and that’s how. It even holds up pretty well against sweat and touch! Overall, definitely worth your money!”

Morphe’s best-selling product has been a beauty bag staple for years. It was one of the first of its kind to offer an ultra-fine mist with continuous air-powered technology and applies super evenly. It’s formulated with vitamin E, vitamin B5, and fruit extracts to nourish the skin as it melts into makeup and features non-propellant bag-on-valve technology that the brand says is less harsh than traditional aerosol sprays while still offering a controlled, consistent application.

What we think: While it’s been a while since I’ve used this setting spray, I’ve purchased it a handful of times. It was one of the first setting sprays I tried after hearing rave reviews on social media, and it still remains a favorite. The application is absolutely stellar—it provides a micro-fine mist over the skin that never lags or sends blotches of liquid onto the skin. While I’ve found that it doesn’t boast as much staying power as some other competitors, it does a great job for daily wear and overall makes my makeup look much smoother and more natural.

Wearing sunscreen is key to protecting skin against the sun’s harmful rays, and this setting spray boasts SPF 30, lending some extra protection. The formula is also hydrating with hyaluronic acid, cucumber, and aloe vera extracts—which is great for days spent in the sun.

What we think: I love bringing this product with me on sunny vacations or in my bag for a long day at the beach. It also makes reapplying sunscreen over makeup easier than ever, without having to worry about ruining your look. I haven’t noticed that it makes my makeup last particularly longer, but it’s something I love to have on hand for sun protection.

If you need a hydration boost, why not turn to the skincare and makeup experts at Neutrogena? This setting spray is infused with hero ingredient hyaluronic acid for a dewy, radiant finish that lasts for hours. It’s also non-comedogenic and hypoallergenic, making it a great option for those with sensitive, reactive, or acne-prone skin.

What reviewers think: “The Neutrogena Hydro Boost Hydrating Makeup Setting Spray has quickly become a must-have in my beauty routine. It’s lightweight and refreshing, giving my skin a nice boost of hydration while setting my makeup perfectly. The hyaluronic acid really makes a difference, leaving my skin feeling moisturized and looking dewy all day. I love how it locks in my makeup without feeling heavy or sticky,” one reviewer on Amazon wrote. “This setting spray keeps my makeup looking fresh for hours, even in humid conditions. Highly recommend this for anyone looking to keep their makeup in place while giving their skin some extra hydration!”

✔️ Start by considering your skin type. When it comes to choosing a setting spray, Lanice first suggests considering your skin type and skin concerns to guide your shopping experience. If you have dry skin, Lanice suggests choosing a setting spray that is hydrating and offers a dewy or radiant finish—like those with hyaluronic acid in the formula. However, if you have oily skin, “a setting spray with a matte finish and keywords like ‘long-wearing’ and ‘mattifying’ will be your best friend.” She adds that there are calming formulas for those with sensitive skin. “If you are prone to hot flashes and sweating, look for waterproof and sweat-resistant formulas,” Lanice concludes.

✔️ Think about your ideal finish. “There are so many different types of setting sprays to choose from—especially when it comes to finish. There are mattifying, glowy, and natural finish setting sprays,” Spickard explains. “So you need to decide what you want your final look to be before you finish with a setting spray.” Spickard prefers mattifying setting sprays overall, as he likes to add glow and radiance with actual makeup products which offer more precision and control for placing luminosity compared to an all-over approach with a setting spray. But, if an all-over radiance is your jam—go for the glowy finish setting spray.

✔️ Don’t shy away from alcohol. “For long wear and hold (which is generally the goal with setting sprays) alcohol-based formulas are going to work the best,” Spickard explains. “The alcohol is quick-drying without leaving residue and doesn’t leave the face wet for an extended period of time (when makeup could potentially smudge or shift). The alcohol itself also helps temporarily mattify, reducing oil and shine immediately after application.”

✔️ Apply like a pro. “For a ‘bulletproof’ makeup application, I generally recommend holding the setting spray several inches away from the face and spraying after applying liquid complexion products (foundation and concealer) before setting with powder and once more at the very end,” Lanice suggests. However, it’s also acceptable to apply just one layer of setting spray at the very end of your makeup routine. Another tip? Lanice says to spray in the shape of an “X” across the face for an even application. Finally, “I like to use a beauty sponge or puff in a ‘press and rolling’ motion to press the product into the skin, marrying the products,” Lanice adds.