5 Best Makeup Setting Sprays Under $20 That Actually Last All Day

You don't have to spend a fortune to keep your makeup looking fresh all day. While high-end setting sprays might tempt you with luxury packaging and bold claims, several affordable options perform just as well – if not better. Whether you're dealing with oily skin, need extra hydration, or want that perfect dewy finish, there's a budget-friendly setting spray that'll meet your needs. Let's explore five proven products under $20 that'll lock your look in place without draining your wallet.

e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray

If you're seeking a budget-friendly setting spray that rivals high-end formulas, e.l.f.'s Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray delivers professional-grade results with its innovative bi-phase formula. This ultra-fine mist combines water and oil-based components with 5% aloe juice, hyaluronic acid, and squalane for deep hydration.

You'll love how it grips your makeup for 12-16 hours while maintaining a natural, dewy finish. Just shake well, spray from 6 inches away, and watch your makeup stay put – even in heat and humidity. While you might notice a slight tackiness at first, it quickly dissipates, leaving your skin feeling refreshed and satiny smooth.

Best For: Makeup enthusiasts seeking an affordable, long-lasting setting spray that provides both makeup grip and hydration while achieving a dewy finish.

Pros:

• Impressive 12-16 hour makeup longevity with excellent grip that prevents transfer and fading
• Hydrating formula with skin-loving ingredients like aloe juice, hyaluronic acid, and squalane
• Ultra-fine mist application and quick-drying properties for comfortable wear

Cons:

• Initial tacky feeling that may be uncomfortable for some users
• Requires thorough shaking before each use to properly mix bi-phase formula
• May require double cleansing to fully remove due to strong gripping properties

e.l.f. Matte Magic Mist & Set Makeup Setting Spray

Beauty lovers on a budget will appreciate e.l.f.'s Matte Magic Mist & Set, a powerful yet affordable setting spray that delivers premium results. This lightweight formula keeps your makeup intact for over 12 hours while controlling shine and maintaining a matte finish.

Packed with skin-loving ingredients like aloe, green tea, and vitamins A, C, E, and B, this spray doesn't just set your makeup—it nourishes your skin too. You'll love that it's completely vegan and cruelty-free, plus it works for all skin types, especially if you're dealing with oil control issues. Simply mist it over your finished makeup look or apply it to your brush before application for long-lasting, budge-proof wear.

Best For: Budget-conscious makeup enthusiasts seeking a long-lasting, mattifying setting spray that works well for all skin types, particularly those with oily skin.

Pros:

• Contains beneficial skincare ingredients like vitamins, aloe, and green tea that nourish while setting makeup
• Provides excellent longevity with 12+ hours of wear and shine control
• Affordable price point while maintaining vegan and cruelty-free standards

Cons:

• May require spraying from a specific distance for optimal coverage
• Some users might need to reapply during very long days
• Basic spray nozzle might not provide as fine a mist as premium alternatives

L'Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist

Busy makeup enthusiasts seeking an affordable yet effective setting spray will appreciate L'Oreal's Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray Mist. This microfine mist promises up to 36 hours of transfer, sweat, and smudge-resistant wear, making it perfect for long days.

You'll need to spray it in circular motions from 12 inches away, and it'll dry instantly with a natural finish that won't settle into imperfections. While the formula excels at keeping makeup intact through heat and humidity, be aware of its strong floral scent and initial stickiness. Don't forget to protect your hair during application, as the spray can leave a crunchy residue.

Best For: Makeup enthusiasts with oily skin who need long-lasting makeup protection throughout busy days and don't mind strong fragrances.

Pros:

• Provides impressive 36-hour makeup protection against sweat and transfer
• Dries quickly with a natural, non-cakey finish
• Effectively maintains makeup in hot and humid conditions

Cons:

• Strong floral scent may be overwhelming for sensitive users
• Initial sticky feeling upon application
• Can leave unwanted residue in hair during application process

Milani Make It Dewy 3-in-1 Setting Spray

Dewy-skin enthusiasts seeking an affordable multitasker will love Milani's Make It Dewy 3-in-1 Setting Spray. This vegan formula primes, sets, and refreshes your makeup while delivering a radiant glow that lasts up to 16 hours without creasing or fading.

For best results, hold the bottle 8-10 inches away and spray in a zigzag pattern. You'll feel an instant cooling sensation as the fine mist settles. While it's perfect for most skin types, including oily complexions, some users note it's not ideal for extreme conditions. The only drawback? A loose cap that makes traveling tricky. At this price point, you're getting high-end performance with East LA-inspired inclusivity.

Best For: Beauty enthusiasts seeking an affordable, versatile setting spray that provides a dewy finish while keeping makeup fresh throughout the day.

Pros:

• Long-lasting formula that keeps makeup intact for up to 16 hours
• Versatile 3-in-1 functionality as primer, setting spray, and refresher
• Fine, even mist that doesn't disturb makeup application

Cons:

• Loose cap design makes it unsuitable for travel
• May not be strong enough for extreme weather conditions
• Some users might find the dewy finish too intense for very oily skin

e.l.f. Makeup Mist & Set Hydrating Setting Spray

Makeup enthusiasts searching for an affordable yet effective setting spray will find their match in e.l.f.'s Makeup Mist & Set. This hydrating formula locks your makeup in place while nourishing your skin with aloe, green tea, cucumber, and vitamins A, C, and E.

You'll love how easy it is to apply – just hold the bottle at arm's length and spray a light layer over your finished makeup. The fine mist delivers even coverage without leaving any sticky residue. For best results, you can also spritz your makeup tools before product application.

At just a fraction of high-end alternatives' cost, this vegan and cruelty-free spray keeps your look fresh and vibrant all day long.

Best For: Makeup users of all experience levels seeking an affordable, effective setting spray that provides both makeup longevity and skin hydration.

Pros:

• Affordable price point while delivering comparable results to high-end setting sprays
• Contains beneficial skincare ingredients like aloe, green tea, and vitamins for added hydration
• Versatile application options, including use on makeup tools for enhanced product application

Cons:

• Some users report issues with the spray nozzle's consistency
• May need to reapply during very long days or extreme conditions
• Basic packaging and design compared to premium brands

Factors to Consider When Choosing 5 Makeup Setting Sprays for Long-Lasting Budget Looks

When selecting an affordable setting spray, you'll want to match it to your skin type and desired finish while checking for beneficial ingredients like glycerin or aloe. Your choice should align with how you prefer to apply setting sprays – whether through a fine mist or targeted spraying – and consider your local climate's impact on makeup wear. For the best budget-friendly results, prioritize sprays that complement your existing makeup routine while delivering the specific finish and longevity you need in your daily environment.

Skin Type Compatibility

Since everyone's skin behaves differently, choosing the right setting spray can make or break your makeup look. If you're dealing with oily skin, you'll want to look for mattifying formulas containing aloe and cucumber to keep shine at bay. For dry skin types, opt for sprays enriched with hyaluronic acid and squalane to maintain hydration and achieve that coveted dewy finish.

If you have sensitive skin, focus on gentle formulations with soothing ingredients like green tea and aloe, while avoiding harsh chemicals that might cause irritation. Those with combination skin should seek versatile sprays that balance both oil control and hydration. Don't forget to check for vegan and cruelty-free certifications, as these products often feature gentler ingredients that work well across different skin types.

Finish and Coverage Goals

Your ideal setting spray should match both your desired finish and coverage needs, as these factors directly influence how your makeup will look throughout the day. If you're dealing with oily skin or heading out in humid weather, opt for a matte setting spray that'll keep shine at bay and maintain that polished look. For those with dry skin or anyone seeking a luminous complexion, a dewy finish spray will add essential hydration while creating that sought-after glow.

Consider your makeup intensity when selecting a formula. Light, natural looks work best with weightless setting sprays that won't overwhelm your minimal makeup. If you're rocking full-coverage foundation and dramatic eye looks, you'll want a setting spray with strong gripping properties to lock everything in place while keeping your skin comfortable.

Active Ingredient Benefits

Making an informed choice about setting sprays starts with understanding their active ingredients and how they benefit your skin. When searching for a budget-friendly setting spray, look for products containing hyaluronic acid, which locks in moisture and creates a dewy finish that lasts throughout the day. You'll want to check for aloe vera if you're seeking both hydration and comfort, especially during long wear.

For added skin protection, choose sprays featuring vitamins A, C, and E, which shield your complexion from environmental stressors while maintaining that healthy glow. If you have sensitive skin, green tea extract can help reduce redness and inflammation. Don't overlook cucumber extract—it's excellent for providing a revitalizing sensation while keeping your makeup in place and your skin feeling comfortable.

Application Method Requirements

When selecting an affordable setting spray, proper application technique plays an important role in achieving professional-looking results. You'll need to check the recommended spraying distance, which typically ranges from 6 to 12 inches, to guarantee even coverage without disrupting your makeup.

For bi-phase formulas, don't skip the vital step of shaking the bottle before use. This helps blend the ingredients for best performance. While some sprays work both as primers and setters, others are strictly for post-makeup application. Pay attention to the product's specific instructions, as some may require application with a brush or sponge rather than direct spraying. Finally, consider the drying time – it's normal for some sprays to feel slightly tacky at first, but this sensation should fade as the product sets.

Longevity Under Climate Conditions

Climate conditions greatly impact how well your setting spray performs, even with budget-friendly options under $20. If you're in a dry climate, look for formulas containing aloe or hyaluronic acid to prevent makeup from flaking. For humid environments, you'll want a mattifying spray that controls shine and resists sweat.

To maximize your spray's effectiveness in any weather, pay attention to your application technique. Hold the bottle at the right distance and spray in either a circular or zigzag pattern for ideal coverage. You'll find that lightweight, breathable formulas work best across different temperatures, helping your makeup stay fresh without cracking. Most affordable setting sprays can deliver 12-36 hours of wear when properly applied, making them a smart investment for maintaining your look in challenging weather conditions.

Price Per Ounce Value

Beyond weather conditions, smart shoppers know that price per ounce can reveal the true value of a setting spray. When you're hunting for budget-friendly options under $20, don't just look at the sticker price – calculate how much you're paying per ounce to maximize your investment.

You'll find some surprisingly affordable options that offer excellent value, with some sprays costing less than $1 per ounce. To get the best deal, watch for sales and promotions that can make even premium brands more accessible. While comparing prices, remember to weigh the cost against performance and longevity. A slightly pricier spray that truly locks your makeup in place might be worth the extra expense if it means you'll use less product over time. Choose larger bottles when possible, as they typically offer better value for regular use.

Scent Sensitivity Concerns

Selecting a makeup setting spray requires careful attention to fragrance sensitivity, especially if you've experienced reactions to scented products in the past. If you're prone to headaches or skin irritation from strong scents, you'll want to opt for sprays labeled as "fragrance-free" or "unscented" in their ingredients list.

Before applying any new setting spray to your entire face, do a patch test on a small area of skin first. You'll save yourself potential discomfort by taking this simple precaution. When shopping for budget-friendly options, don't compromise on your comfort – there are plenty of affordable setting sprays that skip synthetic fragrances altogether. If you can't find a completely unscented option, look for products with mild, quickly dissipating scents that won't linger and trigger sensitivity throughout your day.

Multi-Purpose Usage Options

The best drugstore setting sprays offer multiple beauty benefits beyond just locking your makeup in place. You'll get more value for your money when you choose a spray that can serve as both a primer and a setting spray. Before applying your foundation, spritz it on your skin to create a smooth canvas, then use it again after your makeup is complete to seal everything in place.

Look for formulas with hydrating ingredients that you can use throughout the day to refresh your look and add moisture when needed. Whether you prefer a dewy or matte finish, you'll find budget-friendly options that work for your style. You can even use these versatile sprays on bare skin for a natural glow or as a quick pick-me-up when you're not wearing makeup.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can Setting Sprays Be Used on Sensitive or Acne-Prone Skin?

You can use setting sprays on sensitive or acne-prone skin, but choose ones labeled "non-comedogenic" and fragrance-free. Look for soothing ingredients like aloe or green tea to minimize irritation while keeping makeup in place.

How Long Does a Typical Bottle of Setting Spray Last?

You'll typically get 2-3 months from a standard 4oz setting spray bottle with daily use. If you're only using it occasionally for special events, it can last up to 6 months or longer.

Should Setting Spray Be Applied Before or After Sunscreen?

You should apply setting spray AFTER your sunscreen. First put on sunscreen and let it absorb completely, then apply your makeup, and finish with setting spray as the final step in your routine.

Can Setting Sprays Be Used Without Wearing Foundation Underneath?

Yes, you can definitely use setting spray without foundation! It'll help set other makeup like blush or eyeshadow, control oil, and add a dewy finish. You'll also get extra hydration for your bare skin.

Do Setting Sprays Expire, and How Can You Tell?

Yes, setting sprays typically expire within 6-12 months after opening. You'll notice if it's expired when the spray smells off, changes consistency, or separates. Always check the PAO (Period After Opening) symbol.

In Summary

You don't need to spend a fortune to keep your makeup fresh all day. These five affordable setting sprays deliver professional results while being gentle on your wallet. Whether you're looking for a dewy finish, shine control, or long-lasting hold, there's an option that'll work for your skin type and beauty goals. Consider your skin's needs and preferred finish when choosing your perfect setting spray match.