The Best Makeup Setting Sprays & Powders
We compared seven popular setting sprays on owner ratings, reviews, and specs. The e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray is our top pick for its balance of effectiveness and affordability.
Updated
The bottom line
The e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray (B0CXQR14J3) is our top pick for its long-lasting hold, dewy finish, and hydrating formula. It costs $11 and has a 4.6/5 Amazon rating from 10,588 owners. The L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL 3-Second Setting Spray Mist (B0FRV2SGGL) is a close runner-up at $14.97, with a matte finish and 36 hours of wear. For a budget option, the e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set (B017G6EA24) at $5.95 offers a matte finish and oil control, though it lacks the dewy effect of the Power Grip Dewy.
e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray $11.00
Best balance of effectiveness and price
The e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray has long-lasting hold, a dewy finish, and hydrating ingredients for $11. It has a 4.6/5 Amazon rating from 10,588 owners. The tradeoff is its dewy finish, which may not suit those who prefer a matte look.
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L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL $14.97
Best for long-lasting matte finish
The L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL 3-Second Setting Spray Mist has 36 hours of wear and a matte finish for $14.97. It has a 4.5/5 Amazon rating from 14,408 owners. The tradeoff is its noticeable scent and slightly sticky feel initially.
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e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set Makeup Setting Spray $5.95
Best budget option for matte finish
The e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set has a matte finish and oil control for $5.95. It has a 4.5/5 Amazon rating from 39,934 owners. The tradeoff is its lack of a dewy finish and slightly lower effectiveness compared to the Power Grip Dewy.
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- e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray Best for dewy finish and long-lasting hold 9.0/10 $11.00 Amazon
- L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL Best for long-lasting matte finish 8.5/10 $14.97 Amazon
- e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set Makeup Setting Spray Best budget option for matte finish 8.0/10 $5.95 Amazon
- e.l.f. Power Grip Rosé Setting Spray Good for brightening and subtle shimmer 7.5/10 $9.35 Amazon
- e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set Good for matte finish and shine control 7.0/10 $9.00 Amazon
- TIRTIR Waterproof Setting Spray Good for waterproof and sweat-resistant finish 6.5/10 $15.00 Amazon
- L'Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist Good for long-lasting wear but with strong scent 6.0/10 $10.86 Amazon
Who should buy which
If you prefer a dewy finish and long-lasting hold, the e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray is your best bet. For a matte finish and 36 hours of wear, the L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL 3-Second Setting Spray Mist is a strong choice. If you're on a budget and need a matte finish, the e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set is a good option.
What owners complain about
The most common complaints across all setting sprays are the scent and initial stickiness. The L'Oreal Paris Infallible XL and Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist both have a noticeable scent that some users find unpleasant. The e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray, while generally well-received, has a few users mentioning its dewy finish may not be suitable for everyone.
Also-rans
The TIRTIR Waterproof Setting Spray (B0DZMMBF3J) and the e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set (B0791MDRFP) did not earn picks due to slightly lower effectiveness and higher prices compared to the top picks. The TIRTIR spray is good for waterproof and sweat-resistant finish but is priced higher at $15. The e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set is good for matte finish and shine control but is slightly less effective than the top picks.