An aerosol setting spray: why droplet size decides whether a spray sets makeup or smudges it

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Researched. We have not used this one long enough to give you a verdict, and we would rather say so than invent one. What follows is how it works, who it suits, and what it will not do. When we have used it properly, this page carries the verdict and the date.

L'Oreal Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray

Most setting sprays come in a pump bottle, and a pump throws out droplets. Some of those droplets are big. Land a big droplet on freshly powdered skin and it can leave a wet spot, lift pigment, or dry into a mark. This spray is an aerosol, and that is the most important thing about it.

Mist versus droplets

An aerosol pushes liquid out under pressure through a fine nozzle, breaking it into a very fine, even mist. Fine mist settles as a thin, uniform layer and dries almost immediately — which is where the "3-second" in the name comes from.

The listing describes a microfine mist that dries instantly and applies evenly without leaving droplets or traces, with a lightweight, breathable feel. If you have ever had a setting spray spot your foundation, this is the difference that fixes it.

How to use it

The listing says to hold it twelve inches from your face — further than most pump sprays — and spray in a circular motion for three to four seconds. The distance matters: too close, and even an aerosol can land too wet in one place.

Close your eyes and hold your breath while you spray, and do it away from anything hot or open flames. Aerosols contain a propellant, and neither your lungs nor a candle want it.

What it claims

Up to 36 hours of wear, according to the listing, with makeup that resists transfer, sweat and smudging, and no white cast, caking or settling into lines. Nobody wears makeup for 36 hours; the number is a way of saying the film is durable. For a normal day, that durability is what keeps foundation from moving by the afternoon.

The finish is natural rather than matte or dewy, which suits most skin.

Where it fits among setting sprays

We explain what setting sprays and powders each do in setting spray and setting powder solve different problems. Of the three sprays we have looked at, this is the quick, even, everyday one. For all-day waterproof hold, see Urban Decay's waterproof All Nighter; for sensitive skin, TIRTIR's alcohol-free spray.

What it will not do

It will not rescue makeup put on over poorly prepared skin. It will not stop an oily T-zone from shining through by the evening, which is still a job for blotting papers or powder. And it will not suit anyone who dislikes aerosols.

The product

An aerosol setting spray with a microfine mist that dries in seconds and gives long wear with a natural finish. It suits anyone whose pump spray leaves wet spots, and anyone in a hurry.

The one people are searching for is the L'Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray, 1.76 oz.

L'Oreal Infallible 3-Second Setting Spray

We do not print prices here, because a price we typed last month is a price that is wrong today.

Written by JamieG in Garner Town, Tennessee.