Make It Last Setting Spray Prime + Correct + Set
Make It Last Setting Spray Prime + Correct + Set
Product Description
Product overview
America's #1 setting spray that primes, hydrates, and sets makeup for up to 24 hours with a natural, skin-like finish. Infused with 2% Niacinamide, Glycerin, and Watermelon Extract to keep your look fresh, waterproof, and sweatproof all day long.
3-in-1 Multitasker
Primes, corrects, and sets makeup in one easy step. Use before and after makeup application for maximum longevity.
Texture & feel
SENSORY3-in-1 Multitasker
Primes, corrects, and sets makeup in one easy step. Use before and after makeup application for maximum longevity.
Waterproof & Sweatproof
Locks makeup in place through humidity, sweat, and tears. Perfect for outdoor events, weddings, and hot weather.
2% Niacinamide
Skin-loving vitamin B3 helps reduce redness, minimize pores, and brighten skin while setting your makeup.
Hydrating Formula
Glycerin and Watermelon Extract provide hydration without adding shine or disrupting your makeup look.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains Benzyl Salicylate (fragrance component). Some experts recommend avoiding salicylate derivatives during pregnancy. Consult your healthcare provider.
Formula does not contain fatty acids, oils, or esters that feed Malassezia yeast. Safe for those prone to fungal acne.
Rating 1/5. Lightweight, water-based formula is unlikely to clog pores or cause breakouts.
Contains Alcohol Denat. high in the ingredient list. May be drying for very dry or sensitive skin types with prolonged use.
Light watermelon-floral scent. Those with fragrance sensitivities should patch test first.
100% vegan formula with no animal-derived ingredients. Never tested on animals.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSNiacinamide (Vitamin B3) 2%Proven
A multifunctional skincare superstar that brightens, reduces redness, minimizes pores, and strengthens the skin barrier while your makeup is set.
- Clinical Evidence: 2% concentration effective for reducing redness and inflammation (Journal of Cosmetic Dermatology)
- Benefits: Anti-aging, skin brightening, pore minimizing, barrier strengthening
- Compatibility: Works well with most ingredients; pairs excellently with glycerin
Glycerin ~3-5%Proven
A powerful humectant that draws moisture into the skin, preventing makeup from looking dry or cakey throughout the day.
- Function: Humectant that attracts and retains moisture in the skin
- Benefits: Hydration, skin barrier support, prevents tight/dry feeling
- Absorption: Fast-absorbing, leaves no sticky residue
Watermelon Fruit ExtractPromising
Antioxidant-rich extract containing vitamins A, B, C, E and amino acids that nourish and protect the skin from environmental stressors.
- Key Components: Citrulline, arginine, lycopene antioxidants
- Benefits: Antioxidant protection, soothing, hydrating
- Scent: Contributes to the light, fresh fragrance
Pseudoalteromonas Ferment ExtractPromising
A biotechnologically-derived ingredient from marine bacteria that promotes skin regeneration and provides anti-aging benefits.
- Source: Fermentation of Antarctic ocean bacteria
- Benefits: Skin protection, regeneration, smoothing
- Function: Stimulates protein synthesis for healthier skin
PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone)Film Former
The key ingredient responsible for the long-lasting, smudge-proof wear. Creates an invisible film that locks makeup in place.
- Function: Film-forming polymer for makeup longevity
- Benefits: Transfer-resistant wear, prevents settling into lines
- Finish: Lightweight, non-sticky when dry
19 ingredients
Water (Aqua), Alcohol Denat., Niacinamide, PVP, Pentylene Glycol, Glycerin, Phenoxyethanol, Poloxamer 407, PEG-60 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Ethylhexylglycerin, Pseudoalteromonas Ferment Extract, Fragrance (Parfum), Citrullus Lanatus (Watermelon) Fruit Extract, Sodium Benzoate, Citrulline, Caprylyl Glycol, Tocopherol, Potassium Sorbate, Benzyl Salicylate
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEUse before makeup to prime skin, then spray again after completing your look to set and lock everything in place.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well
Shake the bottle thoroughly before each use to ensure the formula is properly mixed.
Prime (Before Makeup)
Hold 8-10 inches away from face and spray in a zigzag pattern over clean, moisturized skin. Let dry for 10-15 seconds before applying makeup.
Apply Makeup
Complete your full makeup routine as usual - foundation, concealer, powder, blush, bronzer, and eye makeup.
Set (After Makeup)
Close your eyes and spray in an X and T formation, covering the entire face. Let air dry completely - do not touch or fan.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You want all-day makeup wear without touch-ups
- You prefer a natural, skin-like finish (not matte)
- You need waterproof/sweatproof makeup for events
- You have oily or combination skin
- You want skincare benefits in your setting spray
- You're looking for an affordable drugstore option
- You have fungal acne and need a safe formula
Consider alternatives if:
- You need a completely matte, oil-controlling finish
- You have extremely dry skin (alcohol may be drying)
- You're sensitive to fragrances
- You're pregnant (consult doctor first)
- You need a fragrance-free formula
- You prefer alcohol-free products
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESLightweight formula controls shine without adding oil. Keeps makeup in place through hot, humid conditions.
Balances perfectly across T-zone and cheeks. Provides hydration where needed without adding shine.
Perfect match for normal skin. Maintains natural finish while extending makeup wear significantly.
Glycerin provides hydration, but alcohol content may be slightly drying. Use over a good moisturizer.
Contains fragrance and alcohol which may irritate very sensitive skin. Patch test recommended.
Low comedogenic rating, fungal acne safe, and contains niacinamide which helps calm acne and reduce redness.
Results timeline
16-24 HOURSLocked-In Look
Makeup appears seamlessly blended and feels set within 10-15 seconds. No tacky or sticky residue.
95% noticed instant settingFresh & Flawless
Makeup still looks freshly applied. No settling into fine lines, creasing, or transfer onto clothes.
88% reported no touch-ups neededStill Going Strong
Extended wear continues with minimal fading. Some users may notice slight natural oil breakthrough in T-zone.
75% maintained full coverageLong Haul Performance
Most makeup still intact for special events. Natural wear visible but no major breakdown or melting.
60% satisfied with all-day wearRatings by platform
19K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Affordable drugstore price point
- Ultra-fine mist for even application
- Natural, skin-like finish (not cakey)
- Contains 2% Niacinamide for skin benefits
- Waterproof and sweatproof formula
- 3-in-1 prime, correct, and set function
- Vegan and cruelty-free
- Pleasant light watermelon scent
- America's #1 selling setting spray
Criticized
- Contains alcohol (potentially drying)
- Contains fragrance (not for sensitive noses)
- Small 2oz bottle size
- Not matte enough for very oily skin
- Some spray nozzle quality issues reported
- May not last full 24 hours for everyone
- Not pregnancy-safe (contains salicylate)
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESSimilar drugstore positioning with niacinamide. Matte finish vs Milani's natural finish. Fragrance-free option available. 16-hour wear claim.
Larger 2.7oz bottle for similar price. Contains cucumber, aloe, and green tea. 16-hour wear. Also vegan and cruelty-free. No niacinamide.
Most affordable option. Similar natural finish. Shorter wear time (8-10 hours). Cruelty-free. Good for testing if setting sprays work for you.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDEMilani Make It Last
NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. Keep cap tightly closed when not in use.
Plastic spray bottle with fine-mist nozzle
Yes - 2.03 fl oz is under TSA 3.4oz liquid limit for carry-on luggage
Frequently asked questions
FAQCaution advised. The formula contains Benzyl Salicylate, a fragrance component that is a salicylate derivative. While topical exposure from a setting spray is minimal, some healthcare providers recommend avoiding salicylate-containing products during pregnancy. Consult your doctor or midwife before use. The product should be generally safe during breastfeeding as it's applied to the face, not near the breast area.
Yes! The formula does not contain fatty acids, oils, esters, or polysorbates that feed Malassezia yeast. It's a water-based formula that should be safe for those prone to fungal acne/pityrosporum folliculitis. Many users with fungal acne have reported using this product without triggering breakouts.
Yes, you can use this setting spray over makeup applied on top of any skincare routine. The setting spray is applied after makeup, so it won't interfere with your retinol, vitamin C, or acids. Just ensure your skincare has fully absorbed before applying makeup and the setting spray.
This setting spray works best for oily, combination, and normal skin types. The natural finish is excellent for those who don't want a matte look. Dry skin types may find the alcohol content slightly drying - apply over a well-moisturized face. Those with very sensitive skin should patch test first due to the fragrance content.
Results are immediate! The spray sets within 10-15 seconds and you'll notice your makeup looks more seamless right away. For the full 16-24 hour wear time, proper application is key: spray before AND after makeup, hold 8-10 inches away, and allow to air dry without touching your face.
This is a 3-in-1 product! Use it after sunscreen/before makeup to prime your skin, then spray again after completing all makeup to set the look. The order is: Skincare → Sunscreen → Setting Spray (Prime) → All Makeup → Setting Spray (Set).
No, this product has a low comedogenic rating of 1/5. It's a lightweight, water-based formula that doesn't contain pore-clogging oils or heavy ingredients. It's suitable for acne-prone skin and won't cause breakouts for most users.
The product has a 12-month PAO (Period After Opening). Once opened, use within 12 months for best results. Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to maintain formula integrity.
Verdict: Milani Make It Last Setting Spray delivers exceptional value as America's bestselling setting spray. The 3-in-1 formula with 2% Niacinamide offers genuine skincare benefits while providing reliable 16-24 hour wear. Best suited for oily, combination, and normal skin types seeking a natural, non-matte finish. The affordable price point, vegan formula, and fungal acne-safe ingredients make it an excellent everyday option. Minor drawbacks include alcohol content that may affect very dry skin and fragrance that sensitive users should test. Overall, a standout drugstore performer that rivals prestige brands at a fraction of the cost.
Product Overview
Quick product notes are a great way to check if a product is free from commonly avoided ingredients by skincare enthusiasts. These preferences come about for different reasons depending on the ingredient such as personal experiences, sensitivities, health preferences & etc.
Just because a product is not free from a common preference does not mean it's a bad product! You can make a personal decision whether or not you want to use a product that contains these ingredients or not - click the labels of the preference to read more about them.
Quick Product Notes
Ever used a product that promised a certain effect but provided no results? It might not have contained any notable ingredients that could have been responsible for that promised effect. It doesn't matter what the marketing or packaging «promises» it can do, if it doesn't contain anything that can help - then the likelihood of it helping is low.
We help you identify key notable ingredients that have been shown to help with effects such as acne-fighting, brightening, UV-protection, wound healing & anti-aging to help you achieve your skincare goals smarter. Please note that different notable ingredients have varying levels of research behind them, some are extremely well proven yet some have mixed research in their efficacy.
Just because a product doesn't contain any notable ingredients doesn't mean it's bad. And a product with notable ingredients (or even many) doesn't necessarily guarantee the efficacy of the product performing these effects either. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine this.
Be smart and use this as just a starting point for you to make more informed and smarter choices and compare it with reviews to see if the product is right for you
Notable Effects & Ingredients
Why are some products great for some people and horrible for others? Well everyone has different skin types and different reactions to the same ingredients.
We've identified a range of ingredients that are commonly regarded as potentially good or bad for those with Dry, Oily/Acne-Prone or Sensitive skin.
A product that contains good or bad ingredients for your skin type doesn't always flat out make the entire product good or bad for your skin. There are other factors such as ingredient quality, concentration and formulation that will ultimately determine your skins reaction.
One of the best ways to use this section is to troubleshoot products you've had bad experiences with in the past. Check if it contains any of the marked ingredients to point out suspect ingredients to avoid in the future!
Ingredients Related to Skin Types
Ingredient Safety Breakdown refers to the percentage % of ingredients in different risk categories as classified by EWG (Environment Working Group) if they are available. There are almost endless cosmetic ingredients and they are one of the few organisations globally that have assigned ratings to a lot of the more commonly used ingredients which is why we reference them.
EWG is seen by many to be more on the alarmist side in their assignment of health ratings resulting in rating ingredients as riskier than they actually are. We recommend using this a reference point rather than a strict guide of ingredient safety and to always do further research if into ingredients that you may find suspect.
Ingredient Safety Breakdown
Product ingredient list
| EWG | CIR | Ingredient Name & Cosmetic Functions | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| 0 |
Alcohol Denat.
|
|
|
| 1 |
PVP
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Film Forming, Hair Fixing, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 1 |
Pentylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 2 |
Glycerin
Solvent, Perfuming, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Hair Conditioning, Skin Protecting, Denaturant, Skin Conditioning
|
Promotes Wound Healing
Hydrating
|
|
| 4 |
Phenoxyethanol
Fragrance, Preservative
|
|




