Setting Spray vs. Powder — Which One's Right for You?

We’ve all been there: You’ve just spent a good chunk of time perfecting your makeup. Your foundation is flawless, your blush is just the right shade of rosy, and your eyeliner? Sharp enough to cut glass.

But then, halfway through the day, you catch a glimpse in the mirror, and your once-fresh face now looks like it’s been through a marathon. What happened to that morning glow?

This is where the magic of setting sprays and powders comes into play. But which one is the right choice for you?

The Basics: What Are Setting Sprays and Powders?

Setting sprays and powders are designed to lock your look in place and keep your face looking fresh from dawn to dusk. But they do it in slightly different ways.

Setting powder is a finely milled product, often translucent or lightly tinted, that you dust over your makeup. It helps to absorb excess oil, reduce shine, and give your skin a matte finish.

Powder is particularly great for those with oily skin or anyone looking to blur the appearance of pores and fine lines. It’s like a soft-focus lens for your face, keeping everything smooth and in place.

Setting spray, on the other hand, is a liquid mist that you spritz over finished makeup. It’s the final touch that seals everything in, preventing your makeup from sliding off throughout the day.

Depending on the formula, sprays can offer various finishes, from matte to dewy. They’re like a protective shield, keeping your makeup intact and your skin looking just how you want it, whether that’s glowing or shine-free.

Your Skin Type: The Deciding Factor

When choosing between setting spray and powder, the first thing to consider is your skin type. Different skin types have different needs, and understanding yours can make all the difference in keeping your makeup looking fresh.

If you have oily skin, powder is often the best choice. Oily skin tends to produce more sebum throughout the day, which can cause your makeup to break down. A setting powder helps to control that shine by absorbing excess oil and keeping your face matte.

Power is especially useful in the T-zone, where oil tends to accumulate the most. Powder can also be reapplied throughout the day without disturbing your makeup, making it a great choice for touch-ups. We recommend the Osmosis Voila Finishing Loose Powder, providing long-lasting wear with a silky, luminous finish.

For those with dry or combination skin, a setting spray might be the better option. Powders can sometimes cling to dry patches and emphasize texture.

A setting spray, especially one with hydrating properties, can help to lock in moisture and give your skin a healthy, dewy finish. It keeps your makeup in place without the risk of caking or settling into fine lines. The Jane Iredale Balance Hydration Spray is an excellent option for extra moisture.

What Look Are You Going For?

Beyond skin type, the finish you want to achieve also plays a big role in whether you should reach for a spray or a powder. If you love a matte, flawless finish that looks airbrushed, powder is your go-to.

Powder is perfect for when you want your skin to look polished and smooth, like you’re walking around with your own personal Instagram filter. Powder is also ideal for big events, where you need your makeup to last for hours under hot lights or in crowded rooms.

On the flip side, if you’re all about that fresh, dewy glow, a setting spray is where it’s at. Sprays are fantastic for achieving that lit-from-within look, giving your skin a natural radiance that’s hard to beat.

Setting sprays are also great for preventing that dreaded powdery look, especially if you’ve gone a little heavy-handed with your makeup. A quick spritz of setting spray can melt all the layers together, making everything look seamless.

When to Use Both

Here’s a little secret: You don’t have to choose between setting spray and powder — you can use both. In fact, combining them can give you the best of both worlds.

For example, you can start by setting your makeup with a powder to control oil and reduce shine, then follow up with a setting spray to lock everything in and add a touch of dewiness. This combo is especially useful for those long days when you need your makeup to stay put from morning till night.

So, should you pick a setting spray or powder? The answer depends on your skin type, the finish you’re after, and how long you need your makeup to last.

Remember, the choice is yours, and there’s no one-size-fits-all answer. Experiment with both, find what works for your skin, and enjoy the confidence of knowing your makeup will stay looking flawless no matter what the day throws your way.

Do you want more skincare advice? Learn whether coffee hurts or helps our skin.