Spray it on!

Manpriya Singh

It’s like a hairspray. Only not for hair. With one misting motion, the make-up setting sprays promise a world of a difference. Well, do they make that difference? Moreover, does that difference last?  For some of the make-up setting sprays promise just what is needed in the summer season; make-up that withstands body’s sweat and oil.  Moving on, there are those that are free of sulfates and phthalates. 

There’s a perfect spray for everyone 

Setting spray, finishing spray, dewy finish, oil control, hydrating spray… the variety and the names can be mind boggling. “Make-up setting spray has almost become a generic term, but the market is flooded with a variety of sprays which serve very different purposes. One can’t be replaced with another,” Kanika Raheja, from Lakme Chain of Salons, points to the mind boggling variety flooding the market. There is one to finish the look (called finishing sprays) that might not necessarily set your make-up or make it last. 

Then there are some that promise to control oil and hence ensure that anti-fade and anti-melt look lasts for hours. She adds: “Then there are different ones for base and eye make-up.”

A finishing spray will impart a nice sheen to the make-up, making it look less cakey. While a setting spray will freeze the make-up making it last longer. While at it, they can hold your look together for longer hours. The oil control sprays ensure anti-smudge anti-smeared look. 

Little things that make a lot of difference  

• Hold at least 10 to 12 inches from face, close your eyes and spray in downward motion a couple of times to cover the entire face. 
• Though not a very favourable way of applying, the spritz can also be pat onto the face using a make-up sponge. 
• Never press or dab after you finish spraying. Allow it to dry. Completely. 
• Apply only a few quirts. A couple, preferably. 
• Be careful with assessing your needs. You need loose setting powder or setting spray, since they both have different purpose, finish and usage. 

However…

They might be a Holy Grail product for only a few of the people, only some of the times. “Their biggest drawback is that they are not recommended for photo shoots and hence not for brides. Make-up finishing sprays invariably give a glossy effect in photographs even if you apply the matte ones,” warns Shivani from Odara—make-up palette by Shivani. 

“They are recommended for combating dryness and dullness especially during winter season.” She adds: “While working on brides and models, I prefer a translucent loose powder,” before recommending the ones by MAC and Kryolan.