If it can survive LA heat and an all day errands run, it’s getting a spot on this list – Ale Jay
There’s nothing worse than spending 30 minutes on your makeup, stepping outside… and watching your face start to melt before your Starbucks order is ready.
When I first got into makeup, I thought setting spray was just “a nice little finishing touch.” But once I realized how much it can actually lock in your makeup, smooth everything out, and make your face last, that’s when the obsession began.
Now, as someone who films under bright lights, runs errands in LA heat, and needs her makeup to hold for hours without turning into a hot mess… I’ve tested a lot of sprays. So today, I’m ranking my top 5 setting sprays, from “she cute” to “can survive a concert, a cookout, and your ex showing up unannounced.”
5. NYX The Face Glue Setting Spray
Listen. She’s the new girl on the block, but don’t sleep on her.
This one made the list because it locks everything down: primer, foundation, powder, the whole glam. And if you’re someone who likes to layer your setting spray (before, during, and after your base routine), NYX the Face Glue Setting Spray plays well with all of that.
It’s also one of those rare gems that works across skin types, whether you’re dry, oily, or somewhere in between. Definitely one to watch.
4. Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Set + Refresh Spray
Powdery face? Not on my watch.
I reach for this one when my skin’s screaming for hydration. If you’ve packed on powder and feel like your face is looking a little too matte or flat, this Milk Makeup Hydrop Grip Set + Refresh Spray will melt everything together and bring the glow back without making you oily.
The finish? Skin-like. The mist? Super fine. The hold? Solid. She’s a team player, especially for dry skin days.
3. Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray
She’s the Beyoncé of setting sprays. Classic, reliable, and always booked.
There’s a reason this one is iconic. I’ve used this for weddings, long shoot days, and even summer nights out, and my makeup still looked like I just left the house. This Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray gives a natural finish (not too dewy, not too matte), and keeps your makeup in place for 12+ hours.
If you’re a beginner, this is a great first setting spray to try. She’s seen it all and still delivers.
2. Fenty Beauty You Mist Makeup-Extending Setting Spray
Okay Fenty, I see you.
Most of Fenty’s complexion products have catered more to oily skin, so when they dropped this hydrating setting spray, I was intrigued. Turns out… it’s so good.
What I love most about the Fenty Beauty You Mist Setting Spray? The ultra-fine mist. It’s not one of those sprays that’ll drench you, it’s delicate but powerful. And the glow it gives? Healthy, dewy skin in a bottle. Dry skin girlies, take notes.
1. ONE/SIZE On ‘Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray
My number one. The GOAT. The face-locker.
This is more than a setting spray, it’s a fixing spray, almost like makeup hairspray (in the best way). This is the One/Size On Til Dawn Setting Spray. The hold is unreal. When I wear this, I don’t have to think about my makeup again for the rest of the day.
It’s a matte finish, so if you’re oily or combo, this is the one you want in your bag. Once it dries down, nothing, and I mean nothing, is budging. It’s so strong, I genuinely believe it changed the setting spray game for good.
If you’ve been struggling to find a setting spray that actually works, I hope this list helps you out. I’ve worn all of these in different conditions, hot weather, long days, emotional nights (don’t ask), and they’ve all proven themselves in the field.
Got a favorite setting spray I haven’t tried yet? Leave a comment and put me on. I’m always down to test something new, especially if it keeps me looking flawless through it all.
See you in the next one,
Ale Jay
