Kayla Young
When getting ready for a night out, sipping mimosas at brunch with friends, or even just prepping for a long day at work, you want your makeup to stay in place! A setting spray is the perfect finishing touch. But with all the different types of sprays, which one is the right choice?
In this article, we break down the difference between dewy vs matte setting spray and help you figure out which will help your skin glow.
To put it simply, the main difference between a matte and a dewy setting spray is the amount of shine you want to finish off your look.
A matte setting spray will keep your makeup in place without adding a finishing glow. On the other hand, a dewy setting spray will lock down your makeup with a finishing sheen.
Contents
What Exactly Is a Setting Spray? and Why Do You Need it?
A setting spray is a great final step in any makeup routine — just a moisturizer is the best first step. If you want to keep your makeup in place for any occasion, all day or all night long, a setting spray will be the answer.
It will seal your primer, foundation and, contour in place so you can enjoy whatever the day (or night!) brings.
It can be frustrating to see all the hard work and time you put into creating the perfect look go down the drain! Weather, oil, sweat, or anything else the day brings can make your look to go south if you’re not careful.
A setting spray locks down your look. It keeps your makeup from smudging, fading, or caking.
Setting sprays come in many different variations, and are produced by many brand. You can chose the right formula and finish for your skin. There are also setting powders if you prefer powdered formulations, as well. But don’t be tempted to use hairspray as setting spray, despite what you might have seen on TikTok.
Now, you’re probably wondering which setting spray to choose. While there’s no perfect answer, use your skin type and the kind of look you want to radiate as your guide.
A matte setting spray will not leave any excess oil or shine on top of your makeup. A dewy setting spray will add a subtle glow and brighten the skin.
A matte setting spray will not leave any excess oil or shine on top of your makeup. A dewy setting spray will add a subtle glow and brighten the skin.
Confused on what to choose? We’ll break it down for you.
Dewy vs Matte Setting Spray
If your skin is prone to excess oil or clogged pores, a dewy setting spray may not be the best option.
It can add to your pore problems.
Matte setting sprays are a great alternative. They can even compliment traditional face finishing powders. Matte sprays will leave your skin with a full, velvety finish.
A matte setting spray will hold your makeup in place longer and will provide fuller coverage for all-day or all-night wear.
For those looking for long-lasting, full coverage hold, a matte setting spray is a perfect choice. If you want some shine and aren’t worried about excess moisture, then dewy is the way to go.
For those looking for long-lasting, full coverage hold, a matte setting spray is a perfect choice. If you want some shine and aren’t worried about excess moisture, then dewy is the way to go.
Setting Sprays and Skin Type
The type of skin you have (oily, dry, combination, etc.) will inform the type of setting spray that will likely work best for you.
Oily Skin
Matte setting sprays are also a great option for those with naturally oily skin. With just a few spritzes as a final touch, these matte setting sprays will help keep natural oils at bay.
You don’t have to worry about touch-ups or too much shine. They can help keep your makeup in place to avoid embarrassing smudges or movement.
On the downside, matte setting sprays may look too heavy on the face. These also have the potential to dry out the skin over time and may accentuate fine lines.
Dry Skin
If you are prone to dry, flakey skin, a matte setting spray may increase the dryness and may not hide skin texture as well.
For those ready to bring on the glow with shimmering skin, a dewy setting spray is the way to go. Dewy setting sprays are usually made from natural oils and humectants that brighten the skin and leave a fresh, moisturized look.
If you do not have skin that is prone to oil, a dewy setting spray can add a nice shine for a radiant finish. Note that some people like to use their setting spray before applying their makeup.
Dewy setting sprays will help your skin appear brighter and more hydrated. These sprays are also usually easy to build over makeup and blend.
You can get the perfect shine to reflect light on all your best features.
Setting for How Long?
One thing to be aware of is that dewy setting sprays may not last as long as matte sprays. They may require a few touch-ups throughout the day or night. This can be an issue if you don’t want to have to deal with reapplication.
These setting sprays may also cause the skin to become oily or overly shiny.
Bringing it Home
When choosing your setting spray, its all about what you want out of the product and how you want it to work with your skin.
For naturally oily skin and for those looking for makeup to go with you all day and night without budging, a matte setting spray is your new best friend.
For those looking for a fresh, luminous finish as bright as your future, a dewy setting spray is your new golden hour.
So, check in with your skin type. And have fun experimenting with different types of setting sprays to find the perfect one for you.
