Title: Fixing Spray vs. Setting Spray: What’s the Difference & Which Should You Use?
Have you ever found yourself staring at the beauty shelves, caught between a fixing spray and a setting spray, unsure which one to choose? I’ve been in that position too! As a makeup artist, I’ve tested both products countless times — and while they sound similar, they actually do very different things.
One blends your makeup together.
The other locks it in.
Knowing the difference can change how long your look lasts — and how flawless it appears throughout the day.
Let’s break it down.
What is Fixing Spray?
A fixing spray is intended to lock your makeup in place and bind all your makeup products together. It's the final step in your makeup routine, making sure your look stays intact even in challenging conditions, such as humidity, sweat, or long hours.
Key Ingredients in Fixing Sprays:
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Polymers: Form a barrier to prevent smudging and transferring
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Silicones: Smooth the skin for a flawless finish
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Waxes: Lock makeup in place for hours
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Alcohols: Help dry down fast and prevent oiliness
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Antioxidants: Add skincare benefits while protecting the skin
What Is a Setting Spray?
A setting spray focuses on blending your makeup, giving you a seamless, dewy finish that lasts all day. It’s often used during the makeup process to reduce cakiness and provide a natural, hydrated look.
Key Ingredients in Setting Sprays:
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Water: Hydrates the skin and helps dissolve ingredients
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Alcohol: Sets makeup quickly (can be drying)
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Glycerin: Attracts moisture for a fresh, dewy look
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Aloe Vera: Soothes and calms the skin
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Film-forming agents (e.g., PVP): Create a protective hold
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Silicones: Control shine and smooth the skin
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Botanical Extracts (e.g., cucumber): Refresh and cool
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Vitamins C & E: Add antioxidant protection
Fixing Spray vs. Setting Spray: Key Differences
| Feature | Fixing Spray | Setting Spray |
|---|---|---|
| Primary Purpose | Locks makeup in place | Blends makeup and enhances the finish |
| Best For | Long-lasting hold | Dewy, natural look |
| Application Time | Final step of the routine | Throughout the process |
| Key Ingredients | Film-forming agents | Hydrating and nourishing elements |
| Longevity Impact | High | Moderate |
| Finish | Matte or natural | Dewy or glowing |
💡 Pro Tip: Want your makeup to stay flawless all day?
Pair your spray with the right tool:
✨ StansOut Beauty Sponge ✨
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Thermoreactive material — softens with body heat, no water needed
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Gives a streak-free, airbrushed finish in seconds
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Designed to work beautifully with setting and fixing sprays
How to Use Fixing Sprays and Setting Sprays
Setting Spray: Use after applying your makeup. Hold the bottle 6–8 inches away and spritz a light mist. This helps blend your layers and give you a polished finish.
Fixing Spray: Use after setting spray or for mid-day touch-ups. Spritz lightly on areas prone to fading (like your T-zone). It refreshes and re-locks your look.
How to Choose the Right Spray for Your Skin Type
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Oily Skin: Go for a matte fixing spray + lightweight setting spray
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Dry Skin: Choose hydrating setting sprays with aloe/glycerin
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Combination Skin: Use setting spray on dry areas, fixing spray on oily zones
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Sensitive Skin: Look for alcohol-free, calming ingredients like chamomile or aloe
🌟 Bonus: The Bridal Glow Setting Spray
If you want the best of both worlds — locked-in wear AND a dewy glow — this is for you:
Bridal Glow Setting Spray
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Radiant champagne finish
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Adds hold without heaviness
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Comes with a FREE fan for quick dry-down
🚶♀️ Great for weddings, date nights, and everyday glam!
Final Thoughts: Fixing Spray or Setting Spray?
If you're looking for durability, go with a fixing spray. For that soft-focus, seamless look? A setting spray is your best friend.
Want both?
💎 Try our Complexion Bundle:
Includes everything you need for a long-lasting, flawless base:
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The viral StansOut Beauty Sponge
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Pro Foundation Applicator Tool
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Two Powder Puffs for shine control