There are some forms of advertisement that just can't be planned or bought but can forever catapult a product into legendary status—thus is the case for Patrick Starrr's One/Size setting spray.
The event in question occurred on Sunday, August 6, 2023, when Beyoncé took to the stage in Washington DC for her Renaissance tour and despite the torrential rain (and we mean torrential), her glam did not budge. Her makeup artist, Rokael Lizama, then went on to confirm and praise the One/Size On Til' Dawn Mattifying setting spray for Bey's weather-proof look and naturally, the fabled $32 mist immediately sold out.
So, we've quizzed two celebrity MUAs on their fave setting spray alternatives, to ensure all your non-comedogenic foundations stay put until it restocks...
Best One/Size setting spray alternatives, according to MUAs
Starrr's viral ONE/SIZE On 'Til Dawn Mattifying Waterproof Setting Spray offers up to 16 hours of 'next-level' hold, with skin-loving ingredients like green tea extract—which helps to tighten pores—and witch hazel, to absorb oil for a blurred and matte finish.
And while you can still shop it directly from ONE/SIZE's website, it's currently completely sold out at Sephora and beyond. So, we've asked celebrity MUAs, Lan Nguyen-Grealis and Elaine Lynskey at Beauty Daily by Clarins, for their recommendations of similarly immovable setting sprays...
RRP: $16
What the experts say: "It's a professional product formulated to stop sweat from 'melting' your make-up. It has a refreshing minty scent, which I love but it's important to close your eyes when spraying, and keep eyes closed for a few seconds post-spritz because otherwise it stings.
"The product settles into the skin quickly, leaving a matte finish that won’t budge! I used this on The 1975 on their UK tour and the makeup stayed intact with no sweat—despite performing under hot lights." | Elaine Lynskey
RRP: $10
What the experts say: As for Lan Nguyen-Grealis faves—the MUA named Urban Decay's cult-popular setting spray and e.l.f's setting mists, adding that, "Both feel different on the skin, but they are just as good for holding make-up in place for long periods of time. NYX setting spray is probably the best dupe for keeping skin matte".
RRP: $15.80
What the experts say: Nguyen-Grealis gave the Kryolan setting spray a shout-out as one of the best waterproof formulas on the market, adding that it's, "used by professionals for underwater shoots, shows and performances."
RRP: $36
What the experts say: "This is iconic and still a strong contender, " remarks Lynskey.
Before adding, "I find it also works well as a primer, spraying onto your sponge or brush before applying foundation."
RRP: $21
What the experts say: Lynskey recommends this for the "finer details of makeup, seals eyeshadow, gel eyeliners and pencil."
Adding that it is "the go-to waterproof product for makeup artists! And it works on all skin-types."
RRP: $38
What the experts say: Lynskey says that this is great for if you prefer a glowy 'lived in' makeup look, suggesting to store it in a mini skincare fridge for a cooling feel!
How to use a setting spray, according to the MUAs...
- Apply as a primer: Spray your setting spray onto your sponge or brush before using it to apply your foundation
- Use in layers: Lynskey says to, "think about using very fine layers" between your makeup steps and to remember that less is more
- Skin type: Go by your skin's needs—if you have oily skin, go for a mattifying spray, if you have dry skin, look for a hydrating formula!
When it comes to applying a setting spray, perhaps the most well-known way is to spritz it all over your face at the end of your makeup routine, to lock everyone into place. Nguyen-Grealis and Lynskey have shared a few more pro tips with us though, for even better results.
As mentioned, when using Urban Decay's setting spray, Lynskey says to try using it as a primer also, by "spraying [it] onto your sponge or brush" before applying your best foundations.
To get the best out of your makeup setting spray, Lynskey says to, "Remember that less is more and think about using very fine layers. You can use it as a primer by spritzing prior to applying foundation. Then you can very lightly spritz between foundation, blusher, and powder for make-up that lasts even longer than you do."
Nguyen-Grealis also explains that selecting the perfect setting spray for you will also depend on its ingredients and your skin needs: "For oily skin, a mattifying one is good for keeping oil under control. A hydrating one will help keep skin moisturized and refreshed. But both will help to prolong makeup."
Formula-wise, Nguyen-Grealis explains that a common ingredient is witch hazel, "which is known for tightening pores and stopping oil from emerging," adding, "There are also plumping and healing ones that refresh the skin, such as Seoulista Beauty or Ella and Jo, which smell amazing and keep the skin looking dewy. Used before, between or after make-up helps to generally lock the make-up in place because of the alcohol and water mixture."
