6 Best Setting Sprays With SPF to Keep Your Makeup Fresh and Protected
If you’re tired of your makeup fading or shifting, especially when exposed to sun or humidity, setting sprays with SPF can offer a practical solution. These products aim to lock in your look while protecting your skin from UV damage, thanks to ingredients like broad-spectrum sunscreens and soothing botanicals. While some formulas provide lightweight hydration or a subtle glow, others focus on long-lasting hold. Understanding their ingredients, application tips, and potential drawbacks can help you choose the right one—yet, with so many options available, the best fit might surprise you.
LOreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist
- Lock In Makeup for up to 36 Hour Wear: Infallible 3-Second Makeup Setting Spray with microfine mist...
- Micro Fine Setting Spray Mist: Our new professional-inspired microfine aerosol mist format instantly...
Looking for a setting spray that keeps your makeup in place all day? The L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist might be just what you need. It gives you up to 36 hours of wear with a light, fine mist. That means your makeup stays put, even on hot days or busy schedules.
This spray is transfer-proof, sweat-resistant, and smudge-proof. It helps prevent your makeup from sliding or cracking. It dries quickly and leaves a natural finish. You won’t see white cast or cakiness. The spray feels light and breathable on your skin.
However, when you spray it for the first time, it might feel sticky or a bit hairspray-like. Its small size means you might need to buy more often. Some people say water can remove makeup if it touches the spray, so be careful with rain or water splashes.
Best for: Anyone who wants long-lasting makeup that resists sweat, transfer, and humidity. Perfect for busy days or hot weather.
Pros:
- Keeps makeup lasting up to 36 hours
- Fine mist creates a natural look
- Resistant to sweat, transfer, and smudges
- Dries fast and feels light on skin
Cons:
- Might feel sticky at first
- May need frequent repurchase due to small bottle
- Water contact might remove makeup easily
If you want a spray that helps your makeup stay in place and feels light on your skin, this could be a good choice. Just remember, it might take a moment to dry and feel a little sticky at first.
Milani Setting Spray + Primer (2.03 Fl. Oz)
- PRIME + CORRECT + SET: Make It Last Prime + Correct + Set Setting Spray preps your face, reduces the...
- LONG-LASTING WEAR: This illuminating finishing spray and makeup primer delivers just the right dose...
The Milani Setting Spray + Primer is a 3-in-1 product. It works as a primer, setting spray, and glow enhancer all at once. The spray feels light and easy to use. It helps your makeup last longer, up to 16 hours. It also adds a natural, dewy shine to your face.
This product contains niacinamide. Niacinamide helps keep your skin hydrated. It also makes your skin feel smoother over time. You can spray it before putting on makeup or after. It’s simple to use and works well for everyday wear.
Even though it doesn’t have SPF, it boosts your glow and keeps your makeup fresh. It’s especially good if you like a dewy look without feeling heavy.
Who should use this? If you want a light product that primes your skin, sets your makeup, and gives a nice glow, this is a good choice.
Pros:
- Combines primer, spray, and glow in one.
- Contains niacinamide to hydrate your skin.
- Lasts up to 16 hours without creasing or smudging.
Cons:
- No SPF, so you might need sunscreen separate.
- Not matte, so it may not control oil for very oily skin.
- The spray’s coverage can be uneven if you hold it too close or don’t spray correctly.
This spray is a simple, handy item for your makeup routine. It keeps your makeup fresh and makes your skin look nice and dewy all day long.
e.l.f. SKIN All Set For Sun SPF 45 Setting Spray
- SETTING SPRAY WITH SPF: Help protect your skin and set your makeup with e.l.f. SKIN’s Suntouchable...
- GRIPS MAKEUP TO LAST: This spray primes and sets makeup in place for long-lasting wear and allows...
Looking for a spray that keeps your makeup in place and protects your skin from the sun? e.l.f. SKIN All Set For Sun SPF 45 is lightweight, clear, and dries quickly. It helps lock in your makeup while shielding you from harmful UV rays with SPF 45. Best of all, it doesn’t leave a white cast, so it works well on all skin tones.
This spray has skin-friendly ingredients like watermelon extract, prickly pear seed oil, and bisabolol. These ingredients help hydrate your skin and calm it down. You can spray it after applying makeup or anytime during the day. Just be careful around your eyes to avoid irritation. Overall, it’s a good product but needs to be used carefully.
If you want a light, effective spray that protects your skin and keeps your makeup looking fresh during outdoor activities or busy days, this might be a good choice.
Pros:
- Protects your skin from the sun with SPF 45
- Dries fast and feels light on your skin
- Works on all skin tones without leaving a white cast
- Contains ingredients that hydrate and soothe
Cons:
- Can irritate your eyes if sprayed too close
- Might leave a greasy feel if used improperly near your hair or face
- Less effective if you sweat a lot or in very humid weather, which can cause the spray to run off
e.l.f. SKIN All Set For Sun SPF 45 Setting Spray
- SETTING SPRAY WITH SPF: Help protect your skin and set your makeup with e.l.f. SKIN’s Suntouchable...
- GRIPS MAKEUP TO LAST: This spray primes and sets makeup in place for long-lasting wear and allows...
If you want to protect your skin from the sun but don’t want your makeup to look messy, e.l.f. SKIN All Set For Sun SPF 45 Setting Spray might be a good choice. It’s a clear, light spray that gives you SPF 45 sun protection. That means it helps block harmful rays when you’re outside. The spray also has ingredients like watermelon extract, prickly pear seed oil, and bisabolol. These ingredients help keep your skin hydrated and calm.
The spray dries quickly and doesn’t leave a white streak, so it works on all skin tones. You can use it easily during the day as needed. Just spray it on over your makeup or bare skin to refresh your look.
Some people might find the scent strong, or it may cause slight eye irritation if you spray near your eyes. Also, when you sweat a lot or use it on your hair, it might feel a bit greasy or sticky. This can make it less comfortable to wear.
This spray is best for people who want a simple, quick way to add sun protection and set their makeup. It’s easy to reapply and perfect for outdoor days.
Pros:
- Protects against sun with SPF 45 in a quick, light spray
- Doesn’t leave white marks and works on all skin tones
- Contains ingredients that keep skin hydrated and calm
Cons:
- Has a strong scent that some may not like
- Might cause eye irritation if sprayed near the eyes
- Could feel greasy or sticky when you sweat or use it in your hair
Milani Sunscreen Setting Spray + Primer for Face
- SETTING SPRAY WITH SPF30: Keep your look on lock and those UV rays blocked! This setting spray sets...
- UVA/UBA PROTECTION: This setting spray with SPF features an antioxidant-rich pollution shield and...
If you want a product that protects your skin from the sun and helps your makeup last longer, Milani Sunscreen Setting Spray + Primer for Face is a good choice. It gives broad protection against UVA and UVB rays with SPF 30. This spray shields your skin from pollution and environmental damage. It also works as a primer before makeup or as a finishing spray to set your look.
The spray has a light, quick-drying formula that applies evenly and feels comfortable on the skin. It can keep your makeup looking fresh for up to 16 hours. You can reapply every two hours for extra sun protection. Some people say the spray nozzle doesn’t always spray smoothly, but overall, it’s a versatile product that helps your skin stay healthy and your makeup stay put.
Best for: People who want a simple product that protects against the sun, helps makeup last longer, and feels light and moisturizing on the skin.
Pros:
- Combines SPF 30 sun protection with makeup primer and setting benefits
- Keeps makeup looking good for up to 16 hours
- Contains antioxidants to help protect against pollution and keep skin healthier
Cons:
- Sometimes the spray nozzle can be inconsistent
- The bottle is small for the price, so you might need to buy more often
- May not dry completely on very oily skin, so touch-ups could be needed
This spray is a good all-in-one product. It’s easy to use, protects your skin, and helps your makeup stay perfect all day.
L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist
- Lock In Makeup for up to 36 Hour Wear: Infallible 3-Second Makeup Setting Spray with microfine mist...
- Micro Fine Setting Spray Mist: Our new professional-inspired microfine aerosol mist format instantly...
The L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist is a great option if you want your makeup to stay put all day. It lasts up to 36 hours and doesn’t easily come off if you sweat or rub your face. The fine mist sprayer applies evenly and dries quickly. It leaves a natural matte look, so your makeup stays fresh without shine. This spray also resists smudging and transfer, making it perfect for hot, humid days or busy routines.
Some people might find the scent a bit strong and chemical-like. When you first spray it, your skin may feel sticky, but that feeling goes away once it dries. Because the bottle is small, you may need to reapply more often, which can cost more over time.
Factors to Consider When Choosing Setting Sprays With SPF
When choosing a setting spray with SPF, you need to consider the level of sun protection it offers, ensuring it matches your daily exposure. It’s also important to think about your skin type and how well the ingredients, like antioxidants or alcohol, might suit or irritate you. Finally, pay attention to application methods and how long the spray stays effective, so your makeup stays flawless and protected throughout the day without needing constant touch-ups.
Sun Protection Level
Choosing a setting spray with SPF means understanding how much protection it gives. The numbers on SPF bottles tell you how well they block the sun’s rays. SPF 15 blocks about 93% of UVB rays. SPF 30 blocks about 97%, and SPF 50 blocks around 98%. The higher the number, the more protection you get. But no spray can block all UVB rays. Also, SPF mainly protects against UVB rays. It does not fully protect against UVA rays, which can speed up skin aging. If you are outside for a long time, you need to reapply every two hours. This is especially true if you sweat or wipe your face. Picking the right SPF depends on your environment and how much sun you expect. It helps keep your skin safe without relying only on high SPF numbers.
Skin Compatibility
Your skin type really matters when choosing a setting spray with SPF. If you have oily skin, look out for sprays that might have alcohol or ingredients that make your skin less shiny. These can dry out dry skin or cause irritation. If your skin is sensitive, pick sprays labeled “hypoallergenic” or “fragrance-free” to help prevent redness or allergic reactions. For acne-prone skin, choose sprays that say “non-comedogenic.” These won’t clog your pores or cause breakouts, even if they have SPF. Also, pay attention to the SPF level. Use a higher SPF if you’re outside a lot. Always check the ingredient list. Some sprays have alcohol or chemicals that can irritate your skin. Read labels carefully to find the best match for your skin type and sensitivities.
Application Technique
Applying setting sprays with SPF is easy if you follow a good technique. First, hold the spray about 8 to 10 inches away from your face. This helps get a light mist that covers your skin evenly. Press the spray button for short bursts of 3 to 4 seconds. This prevents you from putting on too much product and keeps your skin from feeling greasy or heavy. Move your hand in a zigzag or small circles while spraying. This way, you cover all parts of your face evenly and avoid missing spots or having too much in one spot. After spraying, wait 10 to 15 seconds for it to dry naturally. Do not touch your face or add other products during this time. Remember to reapply every two hours when you are in the sun. This will keep your SPF protection strong and your skin looking fresh all day.
Formulation Ingredients
When you pick a setting spray with SPF, look carefully at what’s inside. The ingredients tell you how well it protects and cares for your skin. Choose mineral sunscreens like zinc oxide or titanium dioxide. They block both UVA and UVB rays and don’t leave your skin feeling greasy.
Adding antioxidants like vitamin E or niacinamide helps protect your skin from pollution and weather damage. These ingredients also soothe your skin and keep it healthy. Be careful with products that have a lot of alcohol or added fragrances. They can dry out or irritate your skin, especially when combined with SPF.
Hydrating ingredients like hyaluronic acid or aloe vera help keep your skin moisturized. They stop dryness that SPF ingredients can cause. It’s also smart to pick a formula made for your skin type. This helps avoid breakouts or reactions, so your skin stays happy and healthy.
Long-lasting Effectiveness
Choosing a setting spray with SPF that lasts all day can be tricky. But if you look at some key points, it gets easier. You want a formula that keeps your makeup in place for at least 8 hours. This is especially helpful if you are outside or active.
Make sure the spray has broad-spectrum SPF. This means it protects your skin from both UVA and UVB rays. Good protection keeps your skin safe from the sun. Also, your spray should resist sweat, humidity, and water. These things can make your spray lose its power fast.
How you apply it matters too. Spray your face evenly and make sure to cover all areas. You can also re-apply during the day if needed. This helps your makeup stay fresh longer and keeps your sun protection strong. Using a high-quality spray means you won’t need to touch up as often.
Keep these tips in mind and you’ll find a setting spray that works well. It will keep your makeup looking good and your skin protected all day long.
Sensory Experience
When you pick a setting spray with SPF, how it feels and smells is really important. Some sprays have strong chemical or perfume smells that can be too much, especially if you’re sensitive to smells. The way the spray feels on your skin matters, too. A fine mist spreads easily, feels light, and doesn’t leave you feeling sticky or heavy. But if the spray has ingredients like alcohol or strong fragrances, it might sting or cause water sensitivity, especially near your eyes. Sometimes, a lingering bad smell after spraying can make you feel less fresh. Picking a spray with a gentle scent, a smooth mist, and ingredients that won’t irritate your skin helps you feel comfortable and confident all day.
Water and Sweat Resistance
Water and sweat resistance in spray products can help your makeup stay put when you are outside. These sprays stick to your skin and resist being washed away by water or sweat. This helps your makeup look fresh longer and keeps you protected from the sun.
Look for labels that say “waterproof,” “humidity-resistant,” or “sweat-proof.” These words mean the spray is better at resisting moisture. But keep in mind, this resistance can fade after many exposures to water or sweat. You will need to reapply the spray during the day to keep it strong.
Applying the spray well at the start and reapplying it often can improve its ability to stay on your skin. Still, no spray can completely stop water or sweat from affecting your makeup. For the best protection, combine proper application with reapplications. This way, your makeup and sun protection stay reliable during active outdoor times.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can Setting Sprays With SPF Replace Traditional Sunscreens?
You shouldn’t rely solely on setting sprays with SPF instead of traditional sunscreens. While they offer some protection and keep your makeup fresh, they typically don’t provide sufficient coverage for all-day sun safety.
Are There Any Ingredients to Avoid in SPF Setting Sprays?
You should avoid setting sprays with SPF that contain alcohol, artificial fragrances, or known irritants, as they can cause skin dryness or reactions. Opt for sprays with skin-friendly ingredients to protect and hydrate your skin effectively.
How Often Should I Reapply SPF Setting Spray During the Day?
You should reapply your SPF setting spray every two hours, especially if you’re outdoors or sweating. This guarantees continuous protection, keeps your makeup fresh, and minimizes the risk of sun damage throughout the day.
Do SPF Setting Sprays Work Well on Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin?
You should test SPF setting sprays on a small skin patch first, especially if your skin is sensitive or acne-prone. Look for non-comedogenic, fragrance-free options and consult your dermatologist to confirm safe use without irritation.
Can SPF Setting Sprays Cause Makeup to Slide or Crease?
You might notice that SPF setting sprays cause your makeup to slide or crease if you apply too much or use a product with heavy oils. To avoid this, spray lightly and choose a formulation suited for your skin type.
Last update on 2026-01-28 / Affiliate links / Images from Amazon Product Advertising API
