Some mornings, your makeup looks perfect. Then midday hits, your forehead gets shiny, your foundation starts sliding, and suddenly you’re wondering why you even bothered. If that sounds familiar, you’re not alone. Finding the best matte setting sprays can change that story.
A good matte setting spray keeps your makeup in place, controls shine, and helps your skin look smooth instead of greasy. It’s not magic, but it comes close.
Top 3 Matte Setting Sprays at a Glance
- Best Overall: Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray
- Best for Oily Skin: NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray
- Best Budget Pick: e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set
Below, we’ll walk through the best matte setting sprays you can find right now, what makes each one special, and how to choose the right one for your skin.
What Makes the Best Matte Setting Sprays Worth It
A matte setting spray does more than just hold makeup in place. It controls oil, softens the look of pores, and helps your base stay smooth for hours. Without one, even the best foundation can melt, crease, or turn patchy.
If you have oily or combination skin, a matte spray can feel like a small miracle. It reduces shine without drying your face into a flat, uncomfortable mask. That balance is everything.
And yes, you can still look natural. Matte doesn’t mean dull. It means controlled, even, and calm-looking skin.
Best Matte Setting Sprays You Can Buy Right Now
1. Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray
Urban Decay’s All Nighter Ultra Matte Setting Spray has a loyal following, and it earns that love. This version is made specifically for people who struggle with shine, especially in the T-zone. It uses oil-absorbing ingredients plus temperature control technology to help your makeup last.
What sets it apart is how weightless it feels. You don’t get that sticky or tight sensation that some sprays leave behind. Instead, your makeup looks freshly applied for hours. I’ve worn this on long, hot days, and it held up better than most others I’ve tried.
It also works well with different makeup types, from full glam to light everyday looks. Your foundation doesn’t move, your blush stays in place, and your skin still looks like skin.
Pros
- Strong oil control without drying the skin
- Lightweight, breathable feel
- Keeps makeup intact for 10 plus hours
- Fine mist that applies evenly
- Helps reduce the look of shine throughout the day
Cons
- Higher price than most drugstore options
If you want professional-level performance and long-lasting matte results, this is one of the best matte setting sprays you can buy.
2. NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray
NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray is a crowd favorite for a reason. It delivers solid oil control, decent wear time, and a comfortable feel at a budget-friendly price. It’s especially popular with people who want matte skin without looking flat.
The formula feels refreshing when sprayed on. It dries quickly and leaves your makeup looking smooth, not cakey. It’s great for everyday use, whether you’re heading to work, school, or running errands.
One thing I like about this spray is how simple it is. No heavy fragrance, no sticky finish, no fuss. Just reliable performance.
Pros
- Affordable and widely available
- Helps control oil and shine
- Lightweight and non-sticky
- Works well with both liquid and powder makeup
- Suitable for daily wear
Cons
- Doesn’t last as long as high-end sprays
This is one of the best matte setting sprays for anyone who wants dependable results without spending too much.
3. Milani Make It Last Matte Charcoal Setting Spray
Milani Make It Last Matte Charcoal Setting Spray blends oil control with a skin-friendly feel. The charcoal ingredient helps absorb excess oil while keeping makeup fresh.
It’s a good option if you tend to get shiny quickly but still want your skin to look natural. The finish is matte but not flat, which is harder to find than it sounds.
The mist is fine and spreads evenly across the face, so you don’t end up with wet patches or streaks.
Pros
- Controls shine well
- Comfortable, non-drying feel
- Fine mist for even application
- Helps makeup last longer
- Suitable for combination and oily skin
Cons
- Slightly scented, which some may not love
A solid middle-ground option for people who want oil control plus a softer matte look.
4. e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set
If you’re looking for a wallet-friendly option, e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set is worth a look. It’s simple, effective, and surprisingly good for the price.
It sets makeup nicely and reduces shine, especially in the T-zone. While it may not last all day on very oily skin, it works well for short to medium wear times.
This one is great for beginners or anyone who wants a backup spray in their bag.
Pros
- Very affordable
- Lightweight and refreshing
- Easy to reapply during the day
- Helps reduce shine
- Travel-friendly size
Cons
- Shorter wear time
One of the best matte setting sprays if you’re on a tight budget and still want decent performance.
5. Maybelline Lasting Fix Matte Setting Spray
Maybelline Lasting Fix Matte Setting Spray is designed for long wear plus shine control. It’s made to handle busy days, long events, and everything in between.
The formula dries fast and doesn’t disturb your makeup underneath. It’s especially good for people who wear full coverage foundation and want it to stay put.
The finish leans more matte than natural, which is great if you’re serious about oil control.
Pros
- Long-lasting hold
- Strong shine control
- Dries quickly
- Affordable
- Easy to find
Cons
- Can feel slightly tight on very dry skin
A good choice for people who want strong hold plus a true matte finish.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Matte Setting Sprays
Choosing the right spray can feel confusing. These tips make it easier.
1. Know Your Skin Type
If your skin is very oily, you’ll need a stronger matte formula. If you’re combination, look for something balanced that controls shine without over-drying.
2. Check the Finish
Some sprays are soft-matte, others are full-matte. Decide how flat or natural you want your skin to look.
3. Look at Wear Time
Some sprays last 4 to 6 hours, others up to 12. Match this to your lifestyle.
4. Consider Ingredients
If you have sensitive skin, avoid heavy fragrance or alcohol-heavy formulas.
5. Think About Comfort
A good spray should feel light, not sticky or tight.
Conclusion
The best matte setting sprays help your makeup survive real life. Long days, warm weather, busy schedules. Whether you choose Urban Decay, NYX, or a budget-friendly option like e.l.f., the right spray can make a noticeable difference.
It’s not about perfection. It’s about feeling comfortable, confident, and a little more at ease in your own skin.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can I use matte setting spray every day
Yes. Most sprays are safe for daily use as long as they don’t irritate your skin.
2. Will matte spray make my skin look flat
Not necessarily. Many modern formulas give a soft matte finish, not a dull one.
3. Should I use setting spray before or after makeup
Always after. It seals everything in.
4. Can I use setting spray instead of powder
You can, but using both gives better oil control.
5. How many sprays should I use
Usually 3 to 5 spritzes are enough for full coverage
