A waterproof setting spray: how film formers hold makeup in place, and what waterproof means at bedtime

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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.

Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Setting Spray

A setting spray is not a spray of glue. It works by laying down a very thin, flexible film — the same idea as hairspray, tuned for skin. The film holds powder and pigment in place, slows the oil and sweat that break makeup down, and stops things smudging when you touch your face.

We covered where sprays and powders each fit in setting spray and setting powder solve different problems. This is a closer look at one of the longest-wearing kinds.

What is in the film

The listing names film formers and glycerin. The film formers are the part that holds; glycerin keeps the finish from feeling tight and dry. The waterproof version makes that film more resistant to water and sweat — the listing claims waterproof, smudge-proof, transfer-resistant, fade-proof and crack-proof wear for up to 24 hours.

It also says the new formula cools the skin by about three degrees Fahrenheit as it goes on. That is a pleasant feeling rather than a performance feature.

How to spray it properly

The listing's instructions are specific: shake well, hold six to eight inches from the face, and spray in an X shape and then a T shape, at least ten times, with your eyes and mouth closed. Then let it dry without touching.

Ten sprays sounds like a lot. It is how you get an even film over the whole face rather than a few wet patches.

Using it between layers

The listing also suggests misting before makeup and between steps, and using a damp sponge to blend cream products after spraying. Spraying a light layer between steps builds the film up as you go, which is how makeup artists get very long wear. For everyday makeup, a finishing spray is usually plenty.

The finish

This one is the Natural finish — described as skin-like with a soft-focus blur. The listing says the range also comes in Matte, for shine control, and Glow, for a dewy look. Choose by your skin: matte for oily, glow for dry, natural in between.

What waterproof means at night

A film built to resist water resists your cleanser too. Splashing with water will not shift it. Take it off with an oil cleanser, cleansing balm or micellar water first, then wash as normal. Sleeping in long-wear makeup is harder on skin than the makeup itself.

What it will not do

It will not fix makeup that has been put on over dry, flaking or very oily skin — prep matters more than setting. It will not keep makeup perfect through heavy sweat or swimming for a full day, whatever the hours on the bottle. And it will not come off with water alone.

For a gentler, faster-drying option, we also looked at L'Oreal's microfine mist and TIRTIR's alcohol-free waterproof spray.

The product

A waterproof, long-wear setting spray with a natural finish, from one of the best-known setting spray lines. It suits long days, humid weather, and events where touch-ups are not an option.

The one people are searching for is the Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray, Natural Finish.

Urban Decay All Nighter 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.