Should You Use Setting Spray Before or After Powder?
Have you ever found yourself wondering whether to apply setting spray before or after setting powder, or even the differences between the two products and how to use them for the best results? As a makeup artist, I get these questions all the time, and I can totally understand the confusion. Both makeup setting sprays and setting powder are essential in locking in your makeup, but when and how you use them can make a huge difference in the longevity and finish of your look. The order you apply them can depend on your skin type, the products you’re using, and the kind of look you’re going for.
In this guide, I’ll break down the differences between setting spray and setting powder, and share tips on how to use them together for a flawless, long-lasting finish. Whether you’re aiming for a matte look or a dewy glow, understanding the right way to use these products is key to perfecting your makeup routine.
Understanding Setting Spray and Setting Powder
Setting Spray: A setting spray is a liquid product formulated to set makeup in place and extend its wear. Whether you have oily, dry, or combination skin, there's a setting spray for your skin type. Professional makeup artists often depend on hydrating setting sprays for dry skin types and mattifying setting sprays for oily skin. You can also reapply the setting spray throughout the day to refresh and reseal your makeup, ensuring it stays intact for longer.
Setting Powder: Setting powder is a fine-textured powder applied over liquid products such as foundation and concealer to set them. It helps absorb excess oil, control shine, and prevent smudging, which keeps your makeup in place for hours. Makeup setting powder is also available in translucent and tinted formulas for different skin tones and types.
Setting Powder vs. Setting Spray: What Are the Differences?
Understanding the differences between the two can help you choose the right product for your skin type and makeup needs. Setting powders are perfect for controlling shine and providing a matte finish while setting sprays give a fresh and natural look that helps makeup last longer. Both serve different purposes and deliver unique results. Let’s dive into how setting powder and setting spray compare.
|
Aspect |
Setting Powder |
Setting Spray |
|
Formula & Texture |
Dry, finely milled powder, typically translucent or tinted. |
A liquid formula is typically sprayed onto the face. |
|
Purpose & Effect |
Sets makeup in place controls oil, and mattifies. |
Locks makeup in place adds hydration and prevents makeup from settling into fine lines. |
|
Application Method |
Applied with a brush, sponge, or puff. |
Sprayed evenly across the face after makeup. |
|
Longevity & Functionality |
Absorbs oil and controls shine, ideal for oily skin. |
Seals makeup, adds hydration, and helps makeup last longer without disturbing it. |
|
Finish & Texture |
Matte finish may appear cakey if over-applied. |
Natural, dewy, or luminous finish. |
Do You Use Setting Spray Before or After Powder?
Deciding whether to apply setting spray or powder first depends on your desired finish. Setting powder helps mattify and lock makeup in place while setting spray seals everything for a longer-lasting look. Let’s explore when to use each product for the best results.
Setting Spray Before Powder: A Trendsetting Technique
Applying setting spray before setting powder can create an invisible film that enhances the wear time of your makeup. Those with dry skin can use a hydrating setting spray rich in nourishing ingredients, such as aloe vera or hyaluronic acid, which give them base makeup without further drying out their skin. This technique is ideal for normal skin types and those looking for a more seamless finish.
How to Apply:
- Start with your base makeup, including foundation and concealer.
- Use an appropriate setting spray, like one with a breathable formula, and mist it across the entire face evenly.
- Let the ultra-fine mist dry completely before applying the setting powder.
- Finish off with a finely milled powder to set everything in place and to control oil.
Setting Spray After Powder: The Traditional Method
Most makeup artists recommend applying setting spray at the end of your makeup routine. This technique ensures that your powder products blend seamlessly and that your makeup stays intact throughout the day.
How to Apply:
- Finish your base makeup by applying foundation, concealer, and then setting powder.
- Hold the bottle of setting spray about 8-10 inches away from your face.
- Spray a fine mist all over the face, focusing more on areas like the T-zone of the face where oil control needs to be much better.
- Let it air-dry for a matte finish or natural finish, action depending on the formula.
Choosing Between Setting Spray and Powder
Deciding between setting spray and setting powder depends on your skin’s needs and the look you’re going for. If you have oily skin, a mattifying setting spray with a powder foundation is the ultimate in oil control and makeup longevity. On the other hand, dry skin types benefit from hydrating setting sprays and lightweight powders to avoid emphasizing dryness. For those with combination skin, use setting powder on oily areas like the T-zone and a hydrating setting spray for the entire face.
How to Use Setting Spray and Powder Together?
1. Layer Strategically: After applying powder products set it with setting spray. This helps in giving a flawless finish and can keep your makeup intact the whole day.Final Thoughts
Setting spray can be applied either before or after powder, depending on the kind of makeup one wants, skin type, and personal preference. Always experiment with different techniques and products to find what works best for you. Remember, the ultimate goal is to create a flawless look that lasts all day while keeping your skin comfortable and healthy.
With the right setting spray and powder, along with proper techniques for application, you'll be able to set your makeup that lasts, from morning to night.
FAQs:
Does setting spray go before or after powder?
Setting spray usually goes over setting powder. Apply setting powder over makeup to set it, then seal it with setting spray to make it last longer.
Should you use both setting powder and setting spray?
Yes, using both together can be super effective. Setting powder helps control shine and Mattify while setting spray makes sure your makeup doesn't smudge all day long. They work well together, depending on skin type and desired finish.
What happens if you put setting spray before makeup?
Applying setting spray before makeup can help to moisturize and prepare your skin. It creates a nice base, especially if your skin is dry, but this is not a substitute for primer. It won't keep your makeup in place like setting spray after makeup.
Do you put setting powder on first or last?
Setting powder should be applied after your foundation and concealer, but before setting spray. It is used to seal in your makeup, suppress shine, and leave the skin feeling smooth and matte, preparing it for a final spritz of setting spray to make everything last.
