Brands get it - money’s tight. That’s why there is renewed emphasis on dual use products, including setting spray that doubles up as a makeup primer. Cool, huh? All-in-one sprays still deliver the final touch in a makeup routine, locking everything in place. However, capitalising on a recently established trend, many formulas have been tweaked so they can be used at the start of a routine as well.
While delivering tangible money-saving benefits, multi-purpose sprays can offer surprising skincare and finish advantages for certain skin types. They also support literally tons of makeup goals.
How does a setting spray work as a primer?
It’s all about the ingredients. Many setting sprays now contain hydrating ingredients. Think of hyaluronic acid, vitamins and niacinamide. They are also formulated with humectants and emollients. Infused together, such properties can create a smooth, primed canvas - perfect for use before makeup application. Additionally, many market-leading setting sprays now benefit from the inclusion of polymers that encourage makeup to ‘stick’ to the skin.
In fact, the performance of a lot of setting sprays can be compared favourably to every-day primers. If you are looking to save money or currently don’t invest in a primer, here are some reasons why you may want to spritz your face at the beginning as well as the end of your makeup application process.
Who should prime their face with setting spray?
Most skin types can benefit from being primed with setting spray. It’s especially beneficial if you don’t own a dedicated priming product or don’t get along with ones you’ve tried in the past. Consider using a spray if you have one of the following skin types or need your makeup to resist a challenging environment.
Dry skin - Is your skin on the dry side? A setting spray with hydrating properties could be your new holy grail. As well as providing the tackiness for a flawless base, the hydrating properties have other benefits too. They will stop foundation, for example, from emphasising dry patches and settling in fine lines. So, if you want to avoid flakiness, give it a go!
Normal to oily skin: Those with normal to oily skin can expect setting spray to create perfect conditions for a lasting base. However, to control shine, those with oily skin should always invest in a spray with oil-control properties.
Humid climates: Let’s face it, with global warming, just about anywhere can get humid from time to time. For makeup to survive a hot, sticky environment a primer is a must. And, if you haven’t got one, reaching for a setting spray could quite literally save the day. Humidity is the number one cause of disappearing makeup. So, if you don’t want your cosmetics to melt or slide off, use a setting spray primer as a barrier between the environment and all those natural oils in your skin. Just one spray will ensure your makeup stays put for longer.
How to use setting spray as a makeup primer
There are some things you can’t skip and cleansing and SPF moisturising are the most important two. Starting with clean, moisturised skin is key to the success of any makeup finish.
Once you are prepped, choose the right setting spray for your skin type. I use The Beauty Crop’s Vitamin Babe setting spray because it’s hydrating and packed with ingredients that complement my skincare routine. I have dry skin, so make sure you choose a spray that will counteract any skin concerns you may have.
Applying a spray as a primer couldn’t be easier. Simply mist the face. Just be careful to ensure the application is even.
Some MUAs allow the spray to completely dry before moving onto the base. However, I prefer to start applying foundation when my skin is still slightly damp. I find this helps to deliver a more even finish. If you are not sure which method will work best for you, experiment. If you do allow the spray to dry, use a damp beauty blender to work foundation and concealer into the skin.
Once you are happy with your base, don’t forget to set it with powder. Always use a brightening powder under the eyes. I recommend the new POWdER range from PLouise.
Finish your look with a final misting of spray. It will lock your makeup in place for up to 12 hours.
Beauty insider tips
It’s always worth patch testing a new setting spray, especially if the one you have bought includes ingredients you haven’t used before. Spray a small amount on the inside of an arm and wait 24 hours before using it on your face. If you suffer any redness or irritation, throw the product away.
A simple setting spray may not cut if for those with excessively oily skin. Sound like you? Use a traditional oil-control primer before misting your face with a setting spray.
It’s worth remembering that not all setting sprays are created equal. Why not experiment with different brands and formulas to find the perfect one for your skin type?
Don’t just choose a setting spray based on your skin type. Consider the environment, i.e. time of year, as well to get the absolute most out of a product.
More benefits of using setting spray as a primer
As well as creating a smooth base for makeup, a setting spray almost universally refreshes the skin - great if you want to maintain either a matte or dewy finish. A spray will also keep your skin cool, if spritzed throughout the day.
Perhaps the best advantage of investing in a setting spray is its versatility. Money-saving and easy to use, this is a product that meets the needs of both the beginning and the end of a makeup routine.
Happy misting!
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