What's the Difference Between Setting Spray and Fixing Spray?

From blending your makeup better to making it last all day, find out which spray you actually need.

Published on May 7, 2025

Have you ever spent hours carefully doing your makeup, only for your look to melt away in the middle of the day? In a hot and humid country like the Philippines, this may be a common case. No-makeup makeup has locked its place and continues to appear among new trends, such as the no-mascara look or the clean girl aesthetic, and this is a celebrated option for beauty enthusiasts hailing from tropical countries—just like you and me.

However, there will always be days when multiple layers of makeup and more colorful, creative looks call our name, especially when we’ll be on the go from morning until night. Whichever the case, there are simple solutions to making your skin still look like skin beneath the cosmetics, and to having your makeup stay in place.

Setting sprays and fixing sprays may be surrounded by confusion, and while they do share similarities, they serve different purposes and offer varying benefits. Find out what you actually need and which one will work best for you below.

What is a setting spray?

A setting spray melts your makeup, not for it to disappear, but for everything to blend well together. It helps you achieve a seamless finish that reduces the thick and heavy look. Using a setting spray can give your makeup a smooth, enhanced, and even finish. By binding the layers together, your look can be more polished and harmonious.

Most setting sprays have less alcohol content compared to fixing sprays, and they usually contain moisture-retaining ingredients like aloe vera, panthenol, and glycerin, making it a revitalizing option for the skin. With its hydrating and nourishing elements, a setting spray can be applied throughout your makeup process and any time you need a refresh within the day.

What is a fixing spray?

A fixing spray locks your makeup in place. It assures you that the hard work you put into your makeup look of the day won’t go to waste—your masterpiece will stay intact despite humidity, sweat, or long hours. A fixing spray is typically the final step of your makeup routine. With only a few spritz, you’ll be ready to go with your makeup having high longevity.

Acting as a barrier to protect your makeup from smudging, fading, or transferring, fixing sprays are commonly equipped with film-forming agents, such as polymers dissolved in a solvent like alcohol. This is what protects your look from adversities, keeping it flawless and durable.

Which one is for you?

Since they serve different purposes, there would be no problem introducing both a setting spray and a fixing spray into your routine. Just keep in mind that a little goes a long way with these, so it’s important not to go overboard.

Depending on your needs, you can just stick with one type. Your makeup routine is unique to you! Here’s a quick rundown of what to look for based on your skin type, and what setting sprays and fixing sprays you should give a try.

Oily Skin

A mattifying fixing spray is the way to go, so you can prevent your makeup from wearing off. This can also help absorb excess shine without stripping your skin of moisture.

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Dry Skin

Stay moisturized throughout the day and keep your skin glowing with a hydrating setting spray.

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Combination Skin

The key is balance. You can apply a fixing spray on oily areas like the T-zone, and a hydrating setting spray for the drier parts of your face. You can also opt for a spray formulated to suit all skin types.

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Sensitive Skin

Use alcohol-free sprays to avoid irritation. Bonus points if they contain soothing ingredients like peptides and antioxidants!

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Kyla Villena loves a good lip gloss and a trip to the art gallery. She is Preview's beauty girl, who doubles as a self-proclaimed motivational speaker.