Setting sprays - some people love them, some people think they're gimmicky and unnecessary. I happen to be part of the first camp. My makeup routine doesn't feel complete without a quick spritz and I swear by the powers of a fine mist of magic potion.
So... how? Well, there are a couple ways. Some people like to spritz their face prior to applying makeup, but my tried and true way is saving a setting spray for the very last step. Once I've applied foundation, done my eye makeup, blush, and topped it all off with a powder, I bring out the setting spray and go to town. If a setting spray is any good, the mist is fine enough that it won't leave big drops of water on your face to screw up your makeup. I prefer misting at the end because it helps take the edge off a powdered face, creating a more natural finish for makeup.
Up until recently, high-end brands used to be the only ones creating and carrying setting sprays. They were virtually non-existent in the drugstore. In the last couple years, setting sprays have gotten more affordable and brands like L'Oreal, Wet n Wild, and Hard Candy all have their own sprays that you can find at Target, Walmart, and Walgreens, just to name a few stores. And don't be fooled, drugstore setting sprays aren't any less effective than higher-end versions.
Above are just a few of the sprays I have on hand. The Evian setting spray is most basic, it's just a purified water spray - great for hydration and refreshing the skin, and no chemicals to be seen. Find a full review of this product here.
Two of my absolute favorites are MAC Fix+ and Urban Decay All Nighter Spray. I like Mac Fix+ with foundations and powders that leave me looking really matte and unnatural. It adds a bit of moisture and dew back to my face, and helps everything look more natural. It sprays out in a fine mist and I go to town spritzing this all over.
I like the All Nighter spray from Urban Decay when I want some added lasting power, or on foundations that are already a bit dewy and leave me with a sheen. It's not a miracle worker for longevity, but it does help keep my makeup looking better for longer.
I think experimentation is key. Thanks to the drugstore, it's affordable to try out a few different setting sprays and see what formulas you like and what you don't. They're a nice step that's not necessary, but surely something you'll come to love and incorporate in to your routine once you find one that works for you.
