Makeup Setting Spray
Makeup Setting Spray
Product Description
Product overview
A lightweight, water-based makeup setting spray by NYX Cosmetics that locks in your full-face look for up to 16 hours with a shine-free matte finish. Powered by niacinamide to help control oil and reduce the appearance of pores, this iconic mist keeps foundation, eyeshadow, and powder in place from day to night without feeling heavy or sticky.
16-Hour Lock
Holds foundation, concealer, blush, and eyeshadow in place all day without transfer or fading.
Texture & feel
SENSORY16-Hour Lock
Holds foundation, concealer, blush, and eyeshadow in place all day without transfer or fading.
Niacinamide-Infused
Vitamin B3 helps reduce shine, refine the look of pores, and leave skin looking smoother.
Breathable Formula
Lightweight mist won't feel like a mask or settle into fine lines, even with full-coverage makeup.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
PETA-certified cruelty-free with zero animal-derived ingredients or by-products.
Safety & compatibility
SAFEContains sodium salicylate (a salt of salicylic acid). While topical exposure is minimal in a setting spray, it's recommended to consult your OB/GYN before use during pregnancy.
No fatty acids, esters, polysorbates, or fermented ingredients that feed Malassezia yeast.
Oil-free, water-based formula with a comedogenic rating of 0. Won't clog pores.
The second-listed ingredient. May be drying or irritating for very dry, sensitive, or compromised skin barriers.
Compatible with retinol, vitamin C, AHA/BHA, peptides, and SPF — applied last over makeup.
Close eyes during application. Hold 6-8 inches from face. Mist downward in an X or T motion.
Ingredient breakdown
INGREDIENTSWater (Aqua) ~70-80%Proven
The base solvent of the formula. Water acts as the carrier that allows the polymer film-former, niacinamide, and botanical extracts to be evenly delivered as a fine mist over the face.
- Function: Solvent and primary base ingredient in this water-based mist.
- Why it matters: Water-based sprays feel lighter than alcohol-only or oil-based formulas, making them more breathable on top of makeup.
Alcohol Denat. ~10-20%Proven
Denatured ethanol speeds up dry-down time and gives the spray its quick-set, no-transfer effect. It also helps the VP/VA Copolymer film cure into a flexible matte layer over makeup.
- Function: Solvent, fast-evaporating carrier, and astringent that controls shine.
- Source: EWG Skin Deep notes alcohol denat. as a moderate-concern ingredient when high in the INCI; it can be drying with frequent use on already dry skin.
VP/VA Copolymer ~3-7%Proven
The hero film-former. This polymer creates an invisible flexible mesh over your makeup that locks pigments in place, resists smudging, and prevents transfer onto clothes, phones, and masks.
- Function: Film-forming agent (the same family as classic hairspray fixatives).
- Result: Cosmetic chemists credit VP/VA Copolymer as the active that delivers the "16-hour wear" claim NYX advertises.
Niacinamide (Vitamin B3) ~1-2%Proven
A multitasking skincare star added for its oil-control and pore-refining benefits. Even in a leave-on mist, niacinamide can help skin look smoother and less shiny over time.
- Source: Clinical studies show niacinamide regulates sebum production at concentrations of 2% and above and brightens skin at 4-5%.
- In this product: Concentration is lower than serum-level, but contributes to the matte, poreless finish NYX advertises.
Propylene Glycol ~3-5%Proven
A humectant and solvent that helps active ingredients penetrate evenly and prevents the formula from feeling overly drying despite the alcohol content.
- Function: Humectant, penetration enhancer, and viscosity-controlling agent.
- Safety: Considered safe by the CIR Expert Panel at typical cosmetic concentrations.
Sodium Salicylate <1%Promising
The sodium salt form of salicylic acid. Used here primarily as a preservative booster and denaturant rather than as an active exfoliant — the neutralized form does not exfoliate like pure BHA.
- Function: Preservative support, denaturant, mild antimicrobial.
- Note: Some pregnancy-aware skincare guides recommend caution with any salicylate, even in low rinse-off or leave-on amounts.
Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract <1%Promising
Narrowleaf plantain extract. Traditional botanical with documented anti-inflammatory, antibacterial, and antioxidant properties — added to soothe and calm post-makeup skin.
- Source: Modern phytochemical studies confirm anti-inflammatory and antibacterial activity in Plantago lanceolata leaves.
- Why it's here: Counterbalances potential irritation from the alcohol content with botanical soothing.
Mahonia Aquifolium Extract <1%Promising
Oregon grape extract. Known in dermatology for its use in eczema and seborrheic dermatitis support thanks to anti-inflammatory and antimicrobial alkaloids like berberine.
- Function: Anti-inflammatory, antibacterial botanical.
- Bonus: Pairs well with the niacinamide for a calmer, less-reactive skin look.
Disodium EDTA <0.2%Proven
A chelating agent that binds metal ions from water and prevents formula instability or discoloration over time. Used in tiny amounts to extend shelf life.
- Function: Chelating agent, preservative booster, formula stabilizer.
- Safety: Recognized as safe in cosmetic concentrations by the CIR.
Phenoxyethanol <1%Proven
The primary preservative protecting the spray from bacteria, mold, and yeast. Globally approved at concentrations up to 1% under EU and FDA cosmetic regulations.
- Function: Broad-spectrum preservative.
- Safety: Generally well-tolerated; rare contact sensitivity in highly reactive skin.
10 ingredients
Water/Aqua/Eau, Alcohol, VP/VA Copolymer, Propylene Glycol, Disodium EDTA, Niacinamide, Sodium Salicylate, Plantago Lanceolata Leaf Extract, Mahonia Aquifolium Flower/Leaf/Stem Extract, Phenoxyethanol.
Where it fits in your routine
ROUTINEApply as the final step of your makeup routine to lock everything in place. Pro tip: mist between layers (after foundation, after powder) for extra hold and a more seamless finish.
How to use
HOW TO USEShake Well Before Use
Give the bottle a firm shake to evenly distribute the niacinamide and botanical extracts in the formula.
Hold 6-10 Inches From Face
Distance matters. Too close gives a wet, uneven splotchy effect; too far wastes product. Aim for arm's length and close your eyes.
Mist in X and T Motion
Spray 3-4 times across the face — one diagonal, one cross — to cover all zones evenly without saturating any single area.
Let Air-Dry 10-30 Seconds
Don't rub or blot. Allow the polymer film to set on its own for the longest, most transfer-resistant hold.
Pro Tip: Mist Between Layers
Spritz once after foundation and once after powder for a velvety, second-skin finish that lasts even longer.
Who is it for?
WHOPerfect for you if:
- You have oily or combination skin and battle midday shine
- You want a budget-friendly drugstore alternative to Urban Decay All Nighter
- You wear full-coverage foundation and want it to last 8-16 hours
- You prefer fragrance-free, vegan, cruelty-free formulas
- You want a poreless, blurred matte finish
- You film, photograph, or shoot video and need transfer-resistant makeup
Consider alternatives if:
- You have very dry or dehydrated skin (try the Dewy version instead)
- Your skin reacts to alcohol denat. or has a compromised barrier
- You want a hydrating mist for skincare prep (this is for finishing makeup)
- You're pregnant and prefer to avoid all salicylates
- You want a glowy, lit-from-within finish (this is mattifying)
Skin type compatibility
SKIN TYPESThe hero match. Niacinamide and alcohol work together to control sebum and keep makeup matte for hours.
Tames T-zone shine without overdrying drier cheek areas. Wear-time around 8-12 hours.
Non-comedogenic, fungal-acne safe, oil-free. Sodium salicylate provides mild antimicrobial support.
Works well for full-day wear, though may feel slightly mattifying if you prefer a natural finish.
Alcohol may emphasize dry patches and flakiness. Try the NYX Dewy version or a hydrating mist instead.
Fragrance-free is a plus, but the high alcohol content may sting reactive or rosacea-prone skin. Patch test first.
Results timeline
12-16 HOURSInstant Matte Finish
Foundation looks blurred and pore-free, shine is visibly reduced, and makeup feels locked into place within seconds.
95% noticedSustained Oil Control
T-zone stays matte for most users. Foundation holds without sliding, even through commuting, meals, and a workday.
82% noticedFull Workday Wear
Makeup remains intact for the average wear time reported in real reviews. Slight T-zone shine may begin in very oily skin.
68% noticedMaximum Hold (Brand Claim)
The advertised 16-hour wear is achievable for normal-to-combination skin in cooler conditions. Active or very oily skin may need a touch-up.
42% noticedRatings by platform
71K+ REVIEWSPros & cons
BALANCEDPraised
- Outstanding value at under $10 for full-day matte wear
- Genuinely controls oil and shine for combination/oily skin
- Lightweight, breathable, doesn't feel like a "mask"
- Doesn't disturb makeup on contact (no streaking)
- Vegan, cruelty-free (PETA certified), and fragrance-free
- Niacinamide adds a mild skincare benefit
- Easy to find at Ulta, Target, Walmart, CVS, Amazon
Criticized
- 16-hour claim is optimistic — real wear is typically 6-10 hours
- High alcohol content can be drying for dry/sensitive skin
- Spray nozzle is strong, can over-saturate one area
- Less long-lasting than premium options like Urban Decay All Nighter
- Bottle size on the small side (60ml) for daily users
- Not ideal for dehydrated or barrier-compromised skin
Budget-friendly alternatives (dupes)
DUPESEven cheaper drugstore option with a similar mattifying effect. Slightly less refined mist nozzle and shorter wear time, but excellent for everyday use.
Comparable matte finish at a similar price point. Slightly more drying than NYX, but more aggressive shine control for very oily skin.
Ultra-budget alternative under $6. Reasonable matte finish but less refined formula and shorter wear time. Good entry-level option.
Three-in-one prime, set, and refresh formula. Slightly more skincare-focused (with vitamin E) but matte hold isn't as strong as NYX.
Comparison with competitors
SIDE-BY-SIDENYX Matte Setting Spray
MAC Fix+ Matte
Storage & shelf life
12 MONTHS12 months after opening (12M symbol on the bottle)
Store upright in a cool, dry place. Avoid direct sunlight and temperatures above 25°C / 77°F.
Plastic spray bottle with fine-mist trigger nozzle. Recyclable where facilities exist.
Yes — 60ml is under the 100ml TSA carry-on liquid limit. A travel-size mini (12-15ml) is also available from NYX.
Frequently asked questions
FAQThe formula contains sodium salicylate, the salt form of salicylic acid. While the concentration in a setting spray is very low and the application is on top of makeup (not directly absorbed into bare skin), some pregnancy-cautious dermatologists recommend avoiding all salicylate derivatives during pregnancy and breastfeeding. We recommend consulting your OB/GYN before use. The rest of the formula — water, niacinamide, propylene glycol, and botanical extracts — is generally considered pregnancy-safe.
Yes. The 10-ingredient formula contains no fatty acids, no fatty alcohols, no esters, no polysorbates, and no fermented ingredients — the four ingredient categories that feed Malassezia yeast. This makes it one of the safer setting sprays for fungal acne sufferers, alongside its non-comedogenic, oil-free profile.
Yes. Setting spray is the final step applied on top of fully completed makeup, so it doesn't interact with your skincare actives underneath. Retinol, vitamin C, AHA, and BHA are applied during your skincare routine and have already absorbed before makeup goes on. There are no conflicting actives in the spray itself.
This setting spray is best for oily and combination skin types. The niacinamide and alcohol denat. work together to control sebum and keep makeup matte for extended hours. It's also a strong choice for acne-prone skin thanks to its non-comedogenic, fungal-acne-safe profile. Dry and very sensitive skin may find it slightly drying — the NYX Dewy version is a better fit in that case.
Results are immediate. Within 30-60 seconds of misting, you'll see a visibly more matte, smoother makeup finish with reduced shine. The full wear-time benefit (locked-in, transfer-resistant makeup) lasts 6-12 hours for most users, though NYX claims up to 16 hours under ideal conditions.
It's the very last step of your makeup routine — after foundation, concealer, powder, blush, eyeshadow, and lip products. Hold the bottle 6-10 inches from your face, close your eyes, and mist 3-4 times in an X or T pattern. For maximum hold, you can also lightly mist between makeup layers (e.g., after foundation and again after powder).
No. The formula is oil-free and rated 0/5 on the comedogenic scale. None of the 10 ingredients (water, alcohol, VP/VA copolymer, propylene glycol, niacinamide, sodium salicylate, EDTA, the two botanical extracts, and phenoxyethanol) are pore-clogging. Niacinamide and the botanical extracts may even help reduce the appearance of pores over time.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is 12 months. Look for the "12M" symbol on the bottom of the bottle. Store upright in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight. The phenoxyethanol and disodium EDTA preservation system keeps the formula stable for the full year of regular daily use.
Verdict: NYX Matte Setting Spray is the gold-standard drugstore matte setting spray for a reason — it delivers a genuinely shine-free finish, locks makeup in for 6-12 hours of real wear, and costs a fraction of premium alternatives like Urban Decay All Nighter. The niacinamide and botanical extracts add a small skincare bonus on top. It's not perfect — the alcohol content can be drying for very dry or sensitive skin, and the 16-hour claim is optimistic for hot or active days — but for oily and combination skin types looking for matte longevity at under $10, this remains one of the best value setting sprays on the market.
Product Overview
What are Quick Product Notes?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Paraben-Free
Paraben-Free
Understanding Parabens
Parabens are a large group of preservatives which are used to prevent bacteria growing in cosmetic formulations. There has been some healthy controversy surrounding them due to a few studies finding paraben presence in breast tumours and breast tissue. However, the majority of the scientific community have deemed these findings non-conclusive due to the limitations of these studies. There's still a lot of support for avoiding parabens following the better safe than sorry route. If you do we completely support you! If you are concerned about the health safety of parabens, then feel free to avoid them by looking out for the Paraben-Free icon. If not, don't worry about it - they do have had one of the longest safety records as preservatives!
Which Ingredients are classified as Paraben?
A product will be paraben-free if it does not contain any of the following parabens:
- Sodium Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Ethylparaben
- Sodium Butylparaben
- Propylparaben
- Isopropylparaben
- Isobutylparaben
- Sodium Propylparaben
- Butylparaben
- Ethylparaben
- Sodium Methylparaben
- Methylparaben
Sulfate-Free
Sulfate-Free
Understanding Sulfates
Sulfates are a large group of ingredients which act as cleansing agents in Cosmetics. They help loosen up the dirt and grime from your skin and hair to allow for water to wash it away with ease. However some sulfates are so good at their job, they can wash off your skin’s own natural oils that keep it moisturised and protected which can lead to dryness and irritation. Most people will find no issues with sulfate, however if you find your skin doesn't like sulfates then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the sulfate-free icon on Skincarisma.
Which ingredients are classified as sulfates?
We've taken the Sulfates which are considered more harsh for our Sulfate-Free status. A product will be Sulfate-Free if it does not contain any of the following Sulfates:
- TEA-Dodecylbenzenesulfonate
- Ammonium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfate
- PEG-15 Cocamine
- Sodium Laureth Sulfate
- Sodium Cocoyl Sarcosinate
- Sodium C14-16 Olefin Sulfonate
- Dioctyl Sodium Sulfosuccinate
- Ammonium Xylenesulfonate
- Ammonium Lauryl Sulfate
- Sodium Xylenesulfonate
- Sodium Myreth Sulfate
- Sodium Lauryl Sulfoacetate
Alcohol-Free
Alcohol-Free
Understanding Simple Alcohols
Alcohol ingredients are widely used in cosmetics and come in different types. For the most part alcohols are not problematic at all. However one type of alcohols, simple alcohols can be quite drying to the skin because it evaporates very quickly. This can cause irritation which can also lead to other skin complications. These alcohols should never be used alone on your skin, but combined with other cosmetic ingredients, they are normally without issue. However, for some people with sensitive and easily irritable skin, avoiding products with these simple alcohols may be beneficial. If you find your skin doesn't like these simple alcohols, then free feel to avoid them by looking out for the Alcohol-Free icon.
Which Ingredients are classified as Alcohol?
A product will be alcohol-free if it does not contain any of the following alcohol ingredients:
- SD Alcohol
- Alcohol Denat
- Isopropyl Alcohol
- Alcohol
Silicone-Free
Silicone-Free
Understanding Silicones
If you've ever used a skincare, makeup or beauty product that's made your skin look and feel smoother tempoarily - it's likely contained Silicone. They are a popular class of ingredients found in cosmetics due to their smooth, soft, easy-to-spread and smooth properties that help creates an artificial layer/barrier on top of skin or hair (commonly found in conditioners).
For the same reasons they are popularly used, they are also commonly avoided. Anecdotally, many individuals have reported that Silicones cause/excerbate breakouts, irritation, cause a feeling of skin being unable to breathe, cause clumping of cosmetic products and find it difficult to wash off. As a result, those who find them problematic are avoiding them and increasingly, cosmetic companies are avoiding them as well.
If you have had bad experiences with Silicones in the past, or suspect they are problematic then look out for the tick on the Silicone-free label.
Disclaimer
The Silicone-free label only includes the most common Silicone ingredients that have indentified been reported by individuals that could potentially cause issues.
These include: Amodimethicone, Behenoxy Dimethicone, Bis-Aminopropyl Dimethicone, Cetearyl Methicone, Cetyl Dimethicone, Cyclomethicone, Cyclopentasiloxane, Dimethicone, Dimethicone Copolyol, Dimethiconol, Methicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Phenyl Trimethicone, Stearoxy Dimethicone, Stearyl Dimethicone, Trimethylsilylamodimethicone.
Note, that this does not include all ingredients part of the Silicone class of ingredients.
EU Allergen-Free
EU Allergen-Free
Understanding the Identified Contact Allergens
The EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety (SCCS) has identified and established 26 cosmetic ingredients that are likely contact allergens (potential to cause skin allergies) as demonstrated in clinical or epidemiological studies. The EU's SCCS have recommend cosmetic companies to disclose them on the labels if used and in cases where the concentration exceeds 0.001% in leave-on products and 0.01% in rinse-off products, then they must be labelled.
Look out for the tick on the EU-Allergen free label to know your cosmetic is free from any of the 26 identified cosmetic ingredients.
For more information regarding the EU's Scientific Committee on Consumer Safety, please visit their official website.
Disclaimer
The EU Allergen Free label is for the 26 ingredients identified by the EU SCCS and products will be only flagged if a suspected ingredient is on it's ingredient list. It is possible for cosmetics to contain one of the suspect ingredients without it appearing on the ingredient list due to it not reaching the concentration threshold to disclose it and cosmetic manufacturers choice to not disclose it.
Also note, the EU Allergen Free label is not personalized for your own allergies you may have and it does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Fungal Acne (Molassezia) Safe
Understanding Fungal Acne (Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia Folliculitis)
Pityrosporum Folliculitis/Malassezia folliculitis or simply known as Fungal Acne is a persistent acne-like condition that commonly responds poorly to traditional acne-treating methods. Unlike most cases of Acne where bacteria is the culprit, Fungi is the culprit of Fungal Acne (Hence the name!). There are certain classes & groups of ingredients that have been shown to promote and feed the growth of the Fungal Acne, Fungi such as fatty acids, oils, esters, polysorbates and fermented ingredients.
For more information regarding Fungal Acne, please visit Simple Skincare Science (f.c) - #3 of our Recommend Skincare Resources for an amazing comprehensive guide!
Please Read: How to use the Fungal Acne (Malassezia) Label
At SkinCarisma, we've done our best to identify as many ingredients as possible but note the fungal-free label may not be 100% accurate due to the complexconditions and combination of ingredients that malezzeria can thrive on.
Additionally, products that may contain ingredients that have shown to feed Malassezia may not neccessarily exacerbate the condition due to concentration of ingredient used in the product, this information is simply not available on the products.
As a result, please note this is only an experimental label that can be best used to possible identify problematic products you have used in the past. It is in no way a perfect identifier nor a predictor in whether or not it will exacerbate or cause fungal acne. It will continue to be worked on as more information and research comes to light.
If you find any ingredients you believe should be included, please email us at snails@skincarisma.com.
Disclaimer
Due to the lack of substantial research into this area it is very likely there are other ingredients and class/groups of ingredients that could feed Fungal Acne which have not been indentified.
The Fungal-Safe label does not constitute as medical advice. For your specific case, always consult your medical professiona such as dermatologist, physician, pharmacist, or health care provider - please read our medical disclaimer for more information.
What are Notable Effects & Ingredients?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
What are Ingredients Related to Skin Type?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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
Dry Skin
Oily/Acne-Prone Skin
Sensitive Skin
What is the Ingredient Safety Breakdown?
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.
Pro Tip Alert!
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 |
|---|---|---|---|
| 1 |
Water
Solvent, Skin Conditioning
|
|
|
| 0 |
Alcohol
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Masking, Solvent
|
|
|
| 1 |
VP/VA Copolymer
Binding, Film Forming, Hair Fixing
|
|
|
| 3 |
Propylene Glycol
Solvent, Skin Conditioning, Fragrance, Humectant, Viscosity Controlling, Viscosity Decreasing Agent, Skin-Conditioningagent - Miscellaneous
|
Hydrating
|
|
| 1 |
Disodium EDTA
Viscosity Controlling, Chelating Agent
|
|