When you’ve spent precious time perfecting a glass-skin base or achieving the ideal cheek glow, it’s only natural to want that effort to last. But deciding whether to use setting powder or setting spray isn't always clear-cut.
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Both products have their benefits and help lock your makeup in place—but there are specific situations where one might be better than the other. Below, we’ll explain what setting powder and setting spray actually do, how they differ, and share go-to makeup setting tips you’ll come back to time and again.
What Does Setting Powder Do?
The primary purpose (and benefit) of setting powder is simple: to lock your makeup in place. Applying a layer of loose or pressed powder over your liquid foundation helps prevent smudging, creasing, and fading, while also creating a smooth surface for other powder products like blush or bronzer.
Setting powder also helps reduce unwanted shine, making it an excellent choice for those with oily skin. That said, there are types suitable for dry skin too—just use them sparingly to avoid emphasizing dryness.
Types of Setting Powder
Setting powder comes in various forms, the most popular being loose and pressed powders.
Loose Powder: Known for its lightweight, finely milled texture, it absorbs shine and gives your makeup a natural, velvety finish that lasts for hours. A great example is Lancôme's long-wear loose setting powder, which controls oil without weighing down your look.
Pressed Powder: Ideal for quick touch-ups throughout the day. It provides light setting power and reduces unwanted shine in seconds.
Setting powders are also available in two finishes: tinted and translucent. Tinted powders offer a bit of extra coverage, while translucent ones simply set the makeup without affecting its color or tone.
What Does Setting Spray Do?
Multi-functional setting sprays are primarily used to lock in your makeup at the end, but they can also be applied between steps or to intensify eyeshadow color (just mist your eyeshadow brush before dipping it into the product for a bolder payoff).
Many setting sprays come with skincare benefits—some control oil, others hydrate or brighten the skin (like those containing hyaluronic acid). When choosing a spray, consider your skin type, your concerns, and the finish you want; these factors will guide you to the best formula.
Like powders, setting sprays come in various types. Some offer a natural finish and help keep your makeup from smudging, fading, or transferring. Others add a dewy glow or a matte finish—again, it all depends on your preference.
How to Apply Them
Setting powder is usually applied after your liquid base and before powder makeup using a soft brush or sponge.
Setting spray is misted over the entire face as the final step in your routine.
While setting powders typically give a matte finish, some leave a more natural look. Setting sprays, on the other hand, range from dewy to matte depending on the formulation.
Benefits:
Both products extend the wear of your makeup. However:
Setting powder is more effective at reducing shine.
Setting spray can hydrate, brighten, or mattify depending on the formula.
When to Use Setting Powder
Setting powder works with most looks but is especially useful if you prefer a soft, matte finish. After applying your liquid base (foundation, concealer, cream blush), use a fluffy brush to lightly dust powder over your face—focusing on shiny areas like the nose, forehead, and chin. Let it sit for a moment, then brush away any excess.
When to Use Setting Spray
Setting spray is incredibly versatile and can be used over both liquid and powder makeup. It’s a great option if you want lasting hold with added hydration. After completing your makeup, hold the bottle 20–25 cm from your face, mist evenly without soaking, and let it air dry. You can also use it between layers—just wait for it to dry before applying the next.
And yes—you can absolutely use both in the same routine for even longer-lasting makeup.
Source: Zahret Al Khaleej
