Lock it in
There’s nothing worse than leaving the house with a flawless face only to catch yourself in the club bathroom mirror a few hours later, wondering, “Where the hell did my foundation run off to?” Between dancing, sweating, city humidity, and the occasional makeup meltdown triggered by an Aperol spritz splash, keeping your look intact all night is its own kind of challenge. That’s where a good setting spray comes in! A few spritzes can mean the difference between your makeup giving out by midnight and surviving until sunrise.
But not all sprays are created equal. Some lock down your face with the strength of industrial adhesive, while others focus on keeping things fresh and dewy, even after hours of heat and humidity (I’m talking to you, sweaty 2 a.m. subway ride). The best of the bunch balance comfort with staying power, making sure you don’t have to worry about darting away mid-conversation to blot, powder, or retouch.
To save you from the financial distress that comes with trial-and-error, we’ve rounded up five of the best setting sprays on the market right now. Each of these has proven to keep makeup in place when it matters most, whether you want a bulletproof matte finish, a dewy glow that lasts till dawn, or protection against your concealer cracking mid-photo!
1. Urban Decay: All Nighter Waterproof
Natural Finish Setting Spray (4.2 fl. oz.)
This baby is championed to be a cult classic among makeup artists for a reason. With up to 24-hour wear and temperature-cooling technology, this setting spray keeps foundation, blush, and even glittery eyeshadow intact well past the afterparty. The microfine mist feels weightless without ending up as a gooey film by the end of the night, and holds up on even the most crowded dance floor. A true go-to if you only buy one.
2. Charlotte Tilbury: Airbrush Flawless
Hydrating & Waterproof Setting Spray
Known for giving that airbrushed red-carpet finish, Charlotte Tilbury’s setting spray is like hairspray for your face, minus all the stickiness. It creates a smooth, pore-blurring effect (courtesy of aromatic resin and Japanese green tea) while locking everything in place. The formula is free of oil or alcohol, which means it won’t dry you out or cause unwanted shine, even after hours of socializing at the bar. The bonus? It smells subtly fresh and floral, making it feel a little more luxe when you spritz it on before heading out. Tres chic!
3. NYX Professional Makeup: Matte
Finish Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
NYX’s Matte Finish Setting Spray proves you don’t need to splurge for performance. This budget-friendly spray, powered by niacinamide, keeps oily skin in check and makeup locked down for most of the night. It’s the perfect pick if you want something reliable without denting your bar tab budget. Oh, and it’s vegan!