An alcohol-free setting spray: what the alcohol in most sprays is for, and what you trade by leaving it out

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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.

TIRTIR Waterproof Setting Spray

Many setting sprays contain alcohol — usually listed as alcohol denat. or ethanol. It is there for good reasons: it evaporates fast, so the spray dries quickly, and it feels cool and fresh on the skin. It is also the ingredient most likely to sting, tighten or dry out sensitive skin, especially sprayed across the whole face several times a day.

What leaving it out changes

According to the listing, this spray is ethanol-free and designed for sensitive skin, with a gentle mist and a breathable finish. Without alcohol, there is less to sting or dry; the trade-off is that a spray without a fast-evaporating ingredient can take a little longer to dry. Give it a minute, without touching, before you judge it.

Waterproof without the alcohol

The listing claims 24-hour waterproof hold that stands up to sweat, water and even chlorinated pool water, and a flexible, non-sticky film. Long wear and alcohol-free are not usually offered together, which is the reason to look at this one.

As with any waterproof spray, the film that resists water resists your cleanser. Take it off at night with an oil cleanser, balm or micellar water before washing.

The finish

Semi-matte, according to the listing — a soft, non-greasy finish that is not flat. It suits combination and oily skin that wants shine controlled without looking powdery. On very dry skin, a dewy finish may look more natural.

How to use it

Hold it at arm's length, close your eyes, and mist evenly over the face in a few sweeps. Let it dry fully before touching your face or putting on glasses. For extra hold on long days, a light mist before makeup and another after.

On the testing claims

The listing says it has been tested for skin irritation and is suitable for all skin types, including sensitive. "Tested" tells you a test was done, not how it went for people like you. If your skin reacts easily, spray a little on your jaw first and wait a day.

Where it fits

We compared the jobs of sprays and powders in setting spray and setting powder solve different problems. Of the three sprays we looked at, this is the one for sensitive skin. Urban Decay's waterproof All Nighter is built for the longest wear, and L'Oreal's aerosol the quickest to dry.

What it will not do

It will not dry as quickly as an alcohol-based spray. It will not suit every sensitive skin, since alcohol is only one possible irritant. And it will not come off with water alone.

The product

A waterproof, alcohol-free setting spray with a semi-matte finish, from the Korean brand best known for its cushion foundations. It suits anyone whose skin objects to the alcohol in ordinary setting sprays.

The one people are searching for is the TIRTIR Waterproof Setting Spray.

TIRTIR Waterproof 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.