Skip to Content

9 Best Drugstore Setting Sprays to Keep Your Makeup From Smudging

If you're not using one of these, WYD?

By
setting spray
@hairbyruslan//Instagram

We may earn commission from links on this page, but we only recommend products we love. Promise.

You know what sucks? Spending hours on your makeup before a night out—aka penciling in your brows and making sure your cat eye is clean—only to have it fade and smudge before you've even had your first shot of tequila. Seriously, though, what's the point of nailing your contour if it doesn't even last you through the night? That's exactly why I tell everyone that they need to add a setting spray to their routine. I mean, it makes sense: Setting sprays are formulated with long molecules (called polymers) that basically protect your makeup from all the elements (think: heat and humidity). And though you're probably thinking this magical product has to be mad expensive, you'll be happy to know that there are actually tons of drugstore setting sprays that get the job done (and keep your skin soft and hydrated) without blowing your budget.

Keep reading to peep the nine best drugstore setting sprays that'll keep your makeup from sliding off your face this summer.

1
Best Illuminating Drugstore Setting Spray

E.L.F Illuminating Mist & Set

E.L.F Illuminating Mist & Set
1
Best Illuminating Drugstore Setting Spray

E.L.F Illuminating Mist & Set

$5 at Ulta Beauty$13 at Walmart$8 at Amazon
Credit: Courtesy Image

Level up your highlighter with this drugstore setting spray. It's filled with shimmery particles that give your face a mini-glow up. Plus, it's super hydrating, all thanks to a blend of aloe and green tea.

2
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Dull Skin

Milani Make It Last 3-in-1 Setting Spray

Milani Make It Last 3-in-1 Setting Spray
2
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Dull Skin

Milani Make It Last 3-in-1 Setting Spray

Credit: Courtesy Image

Think of this drugstore setting spray as an early morning wake-up call for your face. The formula adds just the right amount of moisture and works to plump dull, puffy skin, while also leaving behind a little glow. Use it in the a.m. after you apply your makeup or throughout the day when you need a reset.

3
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Oily Skin

NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray

NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray
3
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Oily Skin

NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Makeup Setting Spray

Credit: Courtesy Image

Trust—no matter how greasy your skin gets, your face beat will definitely stay put once you use this drugstore setting spray. The formula goes on matte, but don't worry—it's super lightweight while still reducing shine.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
4
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Dry Skin

Pixi By Petra Makeup Fixing Mist

Pixi By Petra Makeup Fixing Mist
4
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Dry Skin

Pixi By Petra Makeup Fixing Mist

Credit: Courtesy Image

On the other hand, if your skin could use an extra dose of moisture (translation: it's dry AF), spray this on as a finishing touch. The pairing of rose water and green tea in this drugstore setting spray keep your makeup intact and your skin hydrated without making your face look wet.

5
Best Multitasking Drugstore Setting Spray

Catrice Prime & Fine Multitalent Fixing Spray

Catrice Prime & Fine Multitalent Fixing Spray
5
Best Multitasking Drugstore Setting Spray

Catrice Prime & Fine Multitalent Fixing Spray

Credit: Courtesy Image

This drugstore setting spray does more than just lock your makeup in place—you can also use it to prep your skin as a primer, or you can spritz it on throughout the day for a refreshing, dewy finish. 

6
Best Lightweight Drugstore Setting Spray

Pacifica Crystal Dew Makeup Setting Spray

Pacifica Crystal Dew Makeup Setting Spray
6
Best Lightweight Drugstore Setting Spray

Pacifica Crystal Dew Makeup Setting Spray

Credit: Courtesy Image

After you spray on this drugstore setting spray, you'll forget it's even there. Packed with ingredients like coconut water and grapefruit seed extract, this lightweight mist keeps your skin (and makeup) looking fresh all day long.

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
7
Best Long-Lasting Drugstore Setting Spray

L'Oreal Paris Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray

L'Oreal Paris Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray
7
Best Long-Lasting Drugstore Setting Spray

L'Oreal Paris Pro-Spray and Set Make-Up Oil-Free Setting Spray

Credit: Courtesy Image

So this drugstore setting spray is a little pricier than the others on this list, but I swear it's worth every penny. You won't have to worry about your makeup running or fading, no matter what the temperature is that day. Spray it on and the oil-free formula will leave behind a smooth and basically poreless complexion.

8
Best Anti-Aging Drugstore Setting Spray

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Makeup Setting Spray

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Makeup Setting Spray
8
Best Anti-Aging Drugstore Setting Spray

Neutrogena Healthy Skin Radiant Makeup Setting Spray

Now 30% Off
Credit: Courtesy Image

This drugstore setting spray works overtime to seal your makeup in place, while also giving you major skincare benefits. The peptides in the mist support collagen production to plump your skin, and the vitamin E protects from damaging free radicals. The result? Brighter and smoother-looking skin.

9
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Sensitive Skin

E.L.F Cosmetics Aqua Beauty Aqua Primer Mist

E.L.F Cosmetics Aqua Beauty Aqua Primer Mist
9
Best Drugstore Setting Spray for Sensitive Skin

E.L.F Cosmetics Aqua Beauty Aqua Primer Mist

Credit: Courtesy Image

Pick up this drugstore setting spray if your skin needs something a little more gentle. It's formulated with soothing cucumber and a hydrating blend of antioxidants, but the ingredients that aren't included are just as important. Free of alcohol and silicones, this spray doesn't make you choose between stressed out skin and makeup that actually stays on.

Headshot of Ama Kwarteng
Ama Kwarteng
Ama Kwarteng was previously the associate beauty editor at Cosmopolitan.
Watch Next
 
preview for All Sections Playlist - Cosmopolitan US
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below

Makeup Products and Ideas

best ulta products

15 Products You Should *Absolutely* Buy at Ulta

best mascara for sensitive eyes

Your Sensitive BB Eyes Deserve These Mascaras 👀

best makeup brushes on amazon

The Best Makeup Brushes Are on Amazon, FYI!

cosmopolitan readers' choice awards 2024

It’s Time to Vote for Your Beauty Favorites

Advertisement - Continue Reading Below
Advertisement - Continue Reading Below