If you have oily skin, you know the struggle: makeup slides off by midday, leaving shine in unwanted places. The best setting sprays for oily skin can change that by locking in your look while controlling excess oil.
Setting sprays are lightweight mists that create a protective layer over your makeup, helping it stay put. With the right spray, you can enjoy a fresh, matte finish all day without constant touch-ups.
Top 3 Product Recommendations
- Best Overall: Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
- Best for Sensitive Skin: NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray
- Best Budget Option: e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set
1. Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray
Urban Decay All Nighter is a cult-favorite for a reason. Designed to keep makeup flawless for up to 16 hours, it works wonders on oily skin by controlling shine without making the face feel tight or dry.
The fine mist applies evenly and dries quickly, creating a breathable barrier over your makeup. It works beautifully in humid climates, preventing makeup from melting or sliding off. I personally noticed that my T-zone stayed matte far longer than usual.
Formulated without alcohol, it doesn’t irritate sensitive areas and is suitable for most skin types. The spray also locks in your makeup without affecting the finish of your foundation, blush, or eyeshadow.
Pros
- Controls oil and shine for extended periods.
- Long-lasting hold up to 16 hours.
- Fine mist ensures even application.
- Works in humid or oily conditions.
- Alcohol-free formula for gentle wear.
Cons
- Pricey compared to drugstore options.
Urban Decay All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is ideal for oily skin lovers seeking long-lasting, shine-free makeup.
2. NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray
NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray is perfect for those with sensitive or combination skin. It locks in your makeup while reducing shine, giving a soft matte finish that looks natural.
Its lightweight formula dries quickly and does not leave a sticky residue. The mist is fine, which helps to evenly distribute the product across the face without disturbing your makeup. Plus, it’s budget-friendly without compromising performance.
I found it particularly effective on my forehead and nose areas where oil tends to peak midday. A quick spray in the morning ensures a fresh look that lasts until evening.
Pros
- Affordable and effective.
- Reduces shine for oily skin.
- Fast-drying, lightweight formula.
- Gentle on sensitive skin.
- Maintains natural matte finish.
Cons
- Might need a touch-up on extremely oily days.
NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray is a reliable, budget-friendly option that keeps oily skin looking matte all day.
3. e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set
e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set is designed to keep your makeup matte while minimizing the appearance of pores. It’s a lightweight, alcohol-free mist that works well for oily and combination skin.
It sets foundation, powder, and blush effectively while controlling shine. The matte finish looks natural, and it’s easy to carry in your bag for quick touch-ups. I’ve found it works best when sprayed in a cross pattern over the face to cover all areas evenly.
Pros
- Budget-friendly and effective.
- Alcohol-free formula prevents irritation.
- Lightweight, quick-drying mist.
- Controls shine and oil.
- Maintains natural look without caking.
- Easy to reapply throughout the day.
Cons
- Not as long-lasting as premium options.
e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set is perfect for daily use, especially for those who want a matte finish without spending a fortune.
4. Urban Decay De-Slick Oil Control Makeup Setting Spray
Urban Decay De-Slick is specifically formulated for oily skin. It absorbs excess oil, controls shine, and keeps makeup in place for hours. The formula is lightweight and doesn’t feel sticky or heavy.
It works well in high humidity and hot weather. Using this spray after applying foundation and powder noticeably reduces midday oiliness. Plus, the cooling effect when applied is quite refreshing.
Pros
- Excellent oil control for oily skin.
- Lightweight, non-sticky formula.
- Cooling sensation upon application.
- Long-lasting matte finish.
- Suitable for all skin types.
Cons
- Slightly higher price.
- Some may prefer a finer mist.
Urban Decay De-Slick Oil Control Makeup Setting Spray is a top pick for oily skin, providing lasting matte coverage with a refreshing feel.
5. Milani Make It Last Matte Setting Spray
Milani Make It Last Matte Setting Spray is a budget-friendly option that doesn’t compromise on performance. It sets makeup while controlling shine and providing a natural matte finish.
The mist is fine and applies evenly, keeping foundation, blush, and eyeshadow in place. It’s particularly effective for midday touch-ups when oily skin starts to shine. I love how it prevents makeup from sliding off without feeling heavy.
Pros
- Affordable and widely available.
- Controls oil and shine effectively.
- Lightweight, breathable formula.
- Long-lasting matte finish.
- Non-irritating for sensitive skin.
- Easy to use for touch-ups.
Cons
- May need reapplication in very humid conditions.
Milani Make It Last Matte Setting Spray is a solid budget option for controlling shine and keeping makeup in place throughout the day.
6. L’Oréal Paris Infallible Pro-Spray & Set Makeup Extender Setting Spray
L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Spray & Set is designed to extend the life of your makeup while controlling oil. It dries quickly and provides a soft matte finish without affecting the texture of your foundation.
The lightweight formula is easy to carry and apply anytime you need a quick refresh. It works well under intense conditions, like long workdays or outdoor events. I noticed a clear difference in oil control compared to using powder alone.
Pros
- Extends makeup wear effectively.
- Controls shine for oily skin.
- Fast-drying, lightweight spray.
- Soft matte finish without caking.
- Travel-friendly for touch-ups.
- Affordable for daily use.
Cons
- Not as strong as premium sprays in extreme humidity.
L’Oréal Infallible Pro-Spray & Set is ideal for keeping makeup in place while controlling shine on oily skin for everyday use.
Buying Guide: How to Choose the Best Setting Spray for Oily Skin
1. Oil Control
Choose sprays formulated specifically for oil-prone skin. Ingredients like silica or witch hazel help absorb excess oil.
2. Matte vs Dewy Finish
Pick a matte finish to reduce shine. Avoid dewy sprays if your skin already tends to get oily.
3. Longevity
Check for sprays that promise long-lasting wear. The longer the hold, the less frequent the touch-ups.
4. Ingredients
Opt for alcohol-free formulas to prevent dryness or irritation. Look for hydrating yet oil-controlling ingredients.
5. Mist Quality
A fine mist distributes product evenly. Coarse sprays may ruin makeup or leave streaks.
6. Price & Availability
While high-end sprays are effective, some drugstore options also perform well for oily skin. Choose one that fits your budget and usage frequency.
Tips for Keeping Oily Skin Makeup Fresh All Day
- Use a mattifying primer: Start with a primer that controls oil and smooths your skin.
- Blot, don’t powder constantly: Blotting papers remove excess oil without disrupting makeup.
- Layering wisely: Use minimal layers of foundation and powder to avoid heaviness.
- Regular touch-ups with setting spray: Carry a small bottle for midday refreshes.
- Choose oil-free formulas: From foundation to blush, opt for oil-free makeup products.
Conclusion
The best setting sprays for oily skin make a world of difference in keeping your makeup matte, fresh, and long-lasting. From the luxurious Urban Decay All Nighter to budget-friendly options like e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set, there’s a spray for every need and wallet. With the right choice, you can finally say goodbye to midday shine and enjoy flawless makeup all day.
Frequently Asked Questions
1. Can setting spray really control oily skin?
Yes! Formulas specifically for oily skin help absorb excess oil and keep makeup in place for hours.
2. Should I use setting spray on wet or dry makeup?
Apply on dry, finished makeup for the best hold and oil control.
3. Can I layer setting sprays?
Yes, light layers are fine, but avoid over-spraying to prevent a cakey finish.
4. How often should I reapply setting spray?
For very oily skin, a midday touch-up can help maintain a matte look without disturbing makeup.
5. Are alcohol-free sprays better for oily skin?
Alcohol-free sprays prevent irritation and dryness, but ensure they still control oil effectively.
6. Can setting sprays replace powder for oily skin?
Not entirely. Sprays control shine and extend wear, while powder can be used for extra oil absorption if needed.
