The 10 Best Mattifying Setting Sprays Can Lock In a Full Beat Even in 90 Degree Heat
My face is shine-free even in this crazy humidity.
I don't want to underscore the importance of great skin prep under makeup, but I recently rediscovered the importance of a good setting spray. You can add all the primer you want, but without a setting spray, nothing is locking all that hard work into place. During the summer heat, I am especially cautious of smudging my makeup, looking oily, or breaking out from sweat. That’s where the best mattifying setting sprays come into play.
Charlotte Tilbury, makeup artist and founder of her eponymous line Charlotte Tilbury Beauty, says that a great formula will prevent “disruption from excess oil, sweat and humidity or everyday movement, making it slip, fade, separate or settle into fine lines and texture.” I mean, who wants to spend an hour on their makeup just to watch it crease and smudge the second you step outside into the boiling temperatures?
With all the options on the market, it can be so difficult to choose the right products for your needs. Tilbury explains that “the biggest mistake is assuming that every setting spray does the same thing.” Some are better at long-wear, others at oil absorption, and some will excel at preserving pigment. Whether you have a long day in the sun, a late night on the dance floor, or are just tired of the heat, the 10 best setting sprays have got your back—I should know, I've tested them all.
Filtered Finish
A major benefit of a matte setting spray is that it can blur and give your skin a smooth, filtered look. These two are my go-tos when I'm worried about breakouts or my skin is just going through it—they lock everything in and are non-comedogenic.
Looking for a product that can blur your pores without drying out your skin? Milk has your back. This Setting spray is designed to add a smooth, long-lasting matte finish with a weightless feel.
I sometimes worry that a mattifying spray might leave my skin dehydrated, but this product intentionally hydrates while maintaining a shine-free, blurred finish all day.
Shine-Proof Favorites
If I could use only two matte setting sprays for the rest of my life, they would be these. They are high-quality, lightweight, smell incredible, and, beyond that, they just work. If you need a well-rounded setting spray that is guaranteed to control your shine, these should be your go-tos.
When it comes to setting sprays, I always reach for Charlotte Tilbury first. The matte version of the brand's classic setting spray is a lifesaver in the summer heat. Pro tip from Tilbury: sandwich the original spray between two layers of the matte one for a velvet finish that looks matte—not flat.
I love a setting spray that melts powder products into my skin before they dry, which a lot of dewy setting sprays do well, but it can be difficult to find a matte spray with the same quality. Morphe’s matte setting spray is the perfect option for blending your makeup into your skin flawlessly.
Sweat-Proof Essentials
Weather and activities can really put my makeup to the test. Luckily, these two setting sprays are waterproof, so I lean on them when I know I'll be getting my heart rate up or spending time by (or in) the pool.
Whether you're sweating or caught in the rain, On Til Dawn will not budge. It lasts from breakfast to dinner with zero touch-ups. But honestly, I wouldn't expect anything less from Patrick Starrr.
This product is made with mature skin (and hot flashes) in mind, and completely prevents sweat from streaking or smudging your makeup. The mist has a cooling effect too, so I toss it in my bag for a midday touch—or cool down.
Sprayed to Last
If you're looking for a setting spray that can make it to the afterparty or hold up through a late night on a summer vacation, look no further. These put the “set” in setting spray.
Long-lasting makeup is one of the biggest challenges in hot weather, so knowing this spray will absorb sweat and unwanted moisture on my skin for 24 hours makes it a must-have. Genuinely, it could be 100 degrees, and you wouldn't even know I'm breaking a sweat.
This product is another 24-hour option at a slightly lower price. It also uses temperature-controlling technology that keeps the skin cool, preventing the heat from messing up your look in the first place. I like the mini option so I can keep it in my bag for a night out.
Affordable All Stars
I love my luxury products, but there are some incredible, affordable options on the market that deserve just as much love.
Made for oily skin, this spray has all the qualities of luxury products without the price tag. And, being in a smaller container is great to have in your weekender bag.
This is by far the most affordable on the list, making it a great option. And don't be fooled by the price, this setting spray is incredibly powerful. It keeps all skin types shine-free, without any parabens or sulfates.
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Meet The Expert
Charlotte Tilbury is one of the leading experts in the beauty industry, serving as President, Chairman, Chief Creative Officer, and Sole Founder of Charlotte Tilbury Beauty. She began her career as a makeup artist, quickly gaining influence in the industry. In 2013, Tilbury used her years of experience to develop her own iconic and innovative brand.
