Setting Spray vs. Fixing Spray: What’s The Difference?

The terms setting and fixing spray are often confused with one another. The function of the two make-up products is fundamentally different.

Setting spray and fixing spray – you have probably come across these two terms before. The names sound very similar, and both products are sprayed on at the end of the make-up routine if foundation, powder, etc. has already been applied. Nevertheless, two different products are meant. We’ll tell you to what extent the two beauty products differ and which spray is suitable for which requirements.

Setting sprays can do that

Anyone who wears a lot of make-up and likes to apply foundation, concealer, (cream) blush, bronzer and powder, will feel (and may see) powdery residue on the skin. The more layers and different consistencies that are applied on top of each other on the face, the heavier the feeling on the skin and the more mask-like the result can look. This is where setting sprays come into play. If you spray this on the face, the make-up combines even better and is optically perfected. Depending on the desired effect, there are setting sprays with a glow effect but also with a matt finish.

The nourishing components contained in setting sprays are responsible for improving the complexion and making the make-up appear more even. These can be, for example, light oils, fruit and plant extracts or glycerine or phantenol.

Fixing sprays can do that

While setting sprays have a visual effect, fixing sprays have a practical use. They fix the make-up and extend the shelf life. Even sweat, friction, rain and the like cannot harm the make-up if it has been sealed with a fixing spray.

While setting sprays focus on nourishing ingredients, many fixing sprays contain film-forming polymers that cover the skin like a net and ensure that all make-up products adhere better. Some fixing sprays also contain alcohol, so that the polymer network holds even better – the disadvantage is that many such alcohol-based sprays are not suitable for sensitive skin.

Setting or fixing spray: The endurance test

You cannot rely on the names of sprays alone. The Mac product “Fix Plus”, for example, suggests that it is a fixing spray when in fact it is a setting spray. So if you have a spray at home that you are not sure whether it is just setting or also setting, put an eyeshadow on your forearm and spray the spray over it. After a short exposure time, you can rub your fingers over the eyeshadow – if the color stays in place, it is a fixing spray.