Stay All Night Micro-Fine Setting Mist
Stay All Night Micro-Fine Setting Mist
Product Description
The e.l.f. Cosmetics Stay All Night Micro-Fine Setting Mist is a lightweight, fast-drying makeup setting spray that locks your look in place for up to 16 hours. Powered by a redesigned micro-fine mister and infused with green tea, cucumber and aloe, it delivers an even, weightless veil with a shine-free, natural finish β a budget-friendly answer to pricey department-store setting sprays.
β¨ Texture & Feel
16-Hour Lock
A PVP film-forming polymer helps hold makeup in place from AM to PM, reducing the need for touch-ups.
Micro-Fine Mister
An upgraded ultra-fine nozzle disperses an even veil of product instead of large wet droplets.
Skin-Loving Extracts
Green tea, aloe and cucumber-inspired botanicals add antioxidant and soothing benefits as makeup sets.
Vegan & Cruelty-Free
100% vegan and cruelty-free, free from parabens, phthalates, sulfates and silicones β at a drugstore price.
π‘οΈ Safety & Compatibility
No retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical UV filters. Generally considered low-risk, but always confirm with your doctor.
Contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26, which are not considered malassezia-safe. Best avoided if you are fungal-acne prone.
Alcohol is the second ingredient and the mist is fragranced. Very dry or reactive skin may find it drying β patch test first.
As a final-step setting spray it sits on top of skincare and makeup, so it pairs fine with retinol, vitamin C, AHA or BHA used earlier.
π¬ Ingredient Breakdown
π§ Water (Aqua) Base Proven
The solvent base of the mist. It dissolves the film-formers and botanical extracts and carries them across the skin as a fine spray, evaporating quickly to leave the active matrix behind.
- Source: Listed first on the INCI, meaning it makes up the largest portion of the formula.
πΆ Alcohol High (2nd listed) Proven
A fast-evaporating astringent alcohol that gives the mist its quick-dry, weightless feel and helps the film set rapidly so makeup doesn't move. It is the engine behind the "instant set" sensation.
- Source: The National Rosacea Society notes astringent alcohols high on an ingredient list can be drying for some skin.
π§· PVP (Polyvinylpyrrolidone) Film-former Proven
A water-soluble film-forming polymer β the same family used in hair styling products to create "hold." It forms a thin, flexible film over makeup that helps lock pigments and powders in place for long wear.
- Source: PVP is a well-documented cosmetic film-former; it is less effective in very high humidity, where the film can soften.
π΅ Camellia Sinensis (Green Tea) Leaf Extract <1% Promising
Green tea extract rich in polyphenols. It contributes antioxidant and soothing benefits, helping neutralize free radicals and calm the skin while makeup sets.
- Source: Green tea polyphenols are studied antioxidants; topical and dietary use is linked to improved skin elasticity and reduced sebum in research.
π΅ Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice <1% Promising
Aloe vera juice, a classic soothing and lightly hydrating botanical. It adds a calming, fresh feel and helps offset the dryness of the alcohol base.
- Source: Aloe contains vitamins A, C, E plus polysaccharides that bind moisture; it is widely used for its anti-inflammatory, soothing properties.
𧱠Ceramide AP <1% Promising
Also known as Ceramide 6, this is a barrier lipid naturally found in skin. Its inclusion is unusual for a setting spray and adds a small barrier-supporting, skin-conditioning touch.
- Source: Ceramides help hold water in the skin and reinforce the barrier, supporting firmer, more hydrated skin over time.
βͺ Silica Low Proven
A fine, porous mineral powder that absorbs excess oil and improves the smooth, even spread of the mist. It supports the shine-free, soft-focus finish reviewers describe.
- Source: Silicon dioxide is valued in cosmetics as a mattifier and texture enhancer due to its oil-absorbing porous structure.
π¦ Butylene Glycol Low Proven
A lightweight humectant and solvent that helps draw in moisture, thin the formula and keep the other ingredients evenly blended for a non-sticky feel.
- Source: Butylene Glycol is a well-tolerated, multi-functional humectant; rare sensitivity can occur in very reactive skin.
16 ingredients
Water, Alcohol, PVP, Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract, Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice, Ceramide AP, Butylene Glycol, PPG-26-Buteth-26, PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil, Silica, Hydroxyacetophenone, Phenoxyethanol, Parfum, Tromethamine, Disodium EDTA, Denatonium Benzoate.
π Where It Fits in Your Routine
This is the final step of your makeup routine. Apply after all face, eye and lip products to lock the full look in place. For best results e.l.f. recommends pairing with their Poreless Putty Primer and Flawless Finish Foundation.
π How to Use
Shake well
Shake the bottle before each use β it's normal for the formula to settle, and the internal mixing ball helps redistribute it evenly.
Hold 8β10 inches away
Position the micro-fine mister roughly an arm's length from your fully made-up face.
Mist in a "Z" formation
Close your eyes and spray 2β4 times across the face in a "Z" or "X" pattern for even, all-over coverage.
Let it dry naturally
Allow the fine mist to dry down on its own β avoid touching the face until set. If the nozzle clogs, run it under warm water.
π€ Who Is It For?
β Perfect for you if:
- You want long makeup wear without a luxury price tag
- You have normal, oily or combination skin
- You prefer a natural, shine-free finish over heavy matte or glow
- You like a refreshing cucumber-fresh scent
- You want a vegan, cruelty-free formula
β Consider alternatives if:
- You are fungal-acne (malassezia) prone
- You have very dry skin sensitive to alcohol
- You need 100% fragrance-free products
- You want an intense, locked-down matte for extreme heat
- You prefer a fully alcohol-free setting spray
π― Skin Type Compatibility
Lightweight, fast-drying and shine-free thanks to silica and a quick-evaporating base β won't add grease.
Controls T-zone shine while the aloe and green tea keep drier cheeks comfortable.
A reliable everyday finish β sets makeup with a natural, even look and refreshing feel.
The alcohol base can feel drying. Layer over a hydrating moisturizer or dewy primer to compensate.
Many sensitive-skin users report no irritation, but the alcohol and fragrance mean a patch test is wise.
Low comedogenic and non-greasy, but not malassezia-safe β keep in mind if you specifically have fungal acne.
π Results Timeline
Fresh, set finish
Makeup looks "melded" and less powdery within seconds of misting; skin feels cool and refreshed from the fine spray.
90% noticedHolding strong
Through a typical workday makeup stays largely in place with reduced shine; oily skin sees the clearest benefit.
75% noticedLong-wear lock
Up to the advertised 16 hours of wear. Some users with very oily skin or in high humidity may want a single touch-up.
60% noticedβ Ratings by Platform
βοΈ Pros & Cons
β Praised
- Outstanding value β around $11 for 2.7 fl oz
- Very fine, even mist that doesn't disturb makeup
- Lightweight, non-sticky, weightless feel
- Refreshing cucumber scent users love
- Soothing green tea, aloe and ceramide additions
- Vegan, cruelty-free and reef safe
β Criticized
- Wear time can fall short of the 16-hour claim
- Nozzle may clog and need a warm-water rinse
- Alcohol-forward β can feel drying on dry skin
- Contains fragrance, not for the fragrance-averse
- Not fungal-acne (malassezia) safe
π° Budget-Friendly Alternatives (Dupes)
A true matte finish for oily skin at a similar price. Sharper shine control, but a smaller ~2 oz bottle and a more clinical scent versus e.l.f.'s cucumber freshness.
A 3-in-1 prime, correct and set spray with a slightly dewier, humidity-resistant finish. Comparable wear, but can feel briefly tacky on application.
The same-brand option for those who want a firmer matte result. Less hydrating and skin-soothing than the Stay All Night botanicals, but even cheaper.
π Comparison with Competitors
e.l.f. Stay All Night Micro-Fine Mist (This Product)
$11.00Urban Decay All Nighter
$36.00NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray
$9.50Milani Make It Last
$10.00π¦ Storage & Shelf Life
12 months after opening
Store in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight and heat
Spray bottle with micro-fine mister and internal mixing ball
Yes β 2.7 fl oz (80ml) is under the 100ml carry-on limit
β Frequently Asked Questions
The formula contains no retinoids, salicylic acid, hydroquinone or chemical sunscreen filters, which are the ingredients most often flagged during pregnancy. As a final-step setting spray it largely sits on the surface of the skin, so it is generally considered low-risk. That said, it does contain alcohol and fragrance β always confirm with your own doctor or OB-GYN before using any product while pregnant or nursing.
No. It contains PEG-40 Hydrogenated Castor Oil and PPG-26-Buteth-26, ingredients that are not considered malassezia-safe. If you specifically deal with fungal acne (pityrosporum folliculitis), you may want to choose a strictly fungal-acne-safe setting spray instead.
Yes. This is a makeup setting spray applied as the very last step, on top of your skincare and makeup. Your retinol, vitamin C, AHA or BHA are absorbed earlier in your routine, so there is no direct interaction. Just let those actives and your makeup settle before misting on top.
It performs best on oily, combination and normal skin, where the lightweight, shine-free finish shines. Dry skin can use it but should layer a hydrating moisturizer underneath, since the alcohol base can feel drying. It is marketed as suitable for all skin types.
Results are immediate. Within seconds of misting, makeup looks more set and less powdery, and skin feels refreshed. Longevity benefits play out across the day, with many users reporting solid wear for 8 hours and up to the advertised 16 hours, depending on skin type and climate.
It is the final step. Apply it after primer, foundation, concealer, powder and all color makeup. Shake well, hold 8β10 inches from your face, close your eyes and mist 2β4 times in a "Z" formation, then let it dry naturally.
It rates low on the comedogenic scale (around 1/5). It is a lightweight, water- and alcohol-based mist with oil-absorbing silica rather than heavy oils, so it is unlikely to clog pores for most people. Note that "low comedogenic" is separate from fungal-acne safety, where it does not pass.
The Period After Opening (PAO) is approximately 12 months. After that the formula's preservatives and botanical extracts may degrade, so it's best to replace it within a year of first use. Store it in a cool, dry place away from direct sunlight to keep it fresh.
Verdict: The e.l.f. Stay All Night Micro-Fine Setting Mist is one of the best-value setting sprays you can buy. For around $11 it delivers a genuinely fine, even mist, a comfortable lightweight feel, a refreshing cucumber scent, and skin-loving extras like green tea, aloe and ceramide that you rarely see at this price. It's a smart everyday pick for oily and combination skin and a popular wallet-friendly alternative to luxury sprays. Just go in knowing the wear time can vary, the nozzle occasionally needs a rinse, and the alcohol-and-fragrance formula isn't ideal for very dry, fragrance-sensitive or fungal-acne-prone skin.
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 skinβs 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 Β«promisesΒ» 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
Anti-Aging from 2 ingredient(s):
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 |
PVP
Viscosity Controlling, Emulsion Stabilising, Antistatic Agent, Binding Agent, Binding, Film Forming, Hair Fixing, Suspending Agent - Nonsurfactant
|
|
|
| 0 |
Camellia Sinensis Leaf Extract
Antimicrobial, Astringent, Emollient, Humectant, Masking, Skin Conditioning, Antioxidant, Skin Protecting, Tonic
|
Anti-Aging
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
Pores
|
|
| 0 |
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice
Skin Conditioning
|
Hydrating
Redness
Irritation
|