In the process of makeup, setting makeup is an extremely critical step. It can not only prolong the durability of makeup, but also make the makeup more delicate and natural. However, faced with a wide range of setting makeup products on the market, many people may feel at a loss as to where to start. Today, let us explore the secrets of setting makeup and find the best setting tool for you.
1. The importance of setting makeup
Setting makeup is the “finishing” link of makeup. It can effectively fix the makeup and prevent it from coming off, smudging or fading. Especially in hot summer or humid environments, setting makeup is indispensable. It can absorb excess oil, reduce the oiliness of the face, and keep the makeup fresh. In addition, setting makeup can also make makeup products such as foundation, eye shadow, blusher, etc. blend better, make the makeup more docile, and avoid the phenomenon of floating powder or sticking powder.
2. Common setting makeup products
(I) Setting spray
Setting spray is one of the most popular setting products at present. It is easy to use and can evenly cover the entire face with just a light spray. The main ingredients of setting spray are usually water, moisturizer and film former. Water can replenish moisture for the skin, moisturizers can lock in moisture and keep the skin hydrated, and film-forming agents can form a transparent protective film on the skin surface to fix the makeup. For example, Urban Decay’s All Nighter setting spray is famous for its super long-lasting makeup effect. It can effectively control oil secretion and keep the makeup in perfect condition for 16 hours. Another highly praised setting spray is MAC’s Fix +, which not only has the effect of setting makeup, but also provides moisturizing and soothing effects on the skin. Its spray is fine and will not damage the makeup, which is suitable for re-spraying at any time during the makeup process.
(II) Setting powder
Setting powder is a traditional setting product, which is usually divided into two forms: loose powder and honey powder. Loose powder has a light texture and is suitable for setting the whole face, especially for oily skin. It can absorb oil well and make the makeup more matte. Honey powder is more convenient to carry and suitable for local touch-ups. The main ingredients of setting powder are talcum powder or corn starch, which have strong adsorption and can absorb oil and sweat on the skin surface. For example, Laura Mercier’s transparent loose powder has a fine texture and hardly changes the skin tone, suitable for all skin types. It can set makeup well without making the makeup look heavy. NARS’s honey powder is popular for its rich color selection. In addition to transparent colors, there are also colors with slight pearlescent luster, which can be used to brighten the skin tone.
(III) Combination of setting spray and setting powder
Although setting spray and setting powder each have their own advantages, using them together often achieves better results. Generally speaking, you can spray a layer of setting spray after using setting powder. In this way, the setting powder can absorb excess oil, while the setting spray can form a protective film on the surface of the powder layer to further fix the makeup. This combination is particularly suitable for oily skin or occasions where makeup needs to last for a long time. For example, when attending a wedding, party or long outdoor activities, using a combination of setting powder and setting spray can keep your makeup perfect from morning to night.
3. How to choose the right setting product for yourself
(I) Choose according to skin type
Different skin types have different needs for setting products. For oily skin, you need to choose a setting product with good oil control effect, such as a setting powder with oil-absorbing ingredients or a setting spray with oil control function. For dry skin, you need to choose a moisturizing setting product to avoid drying the skin due to setting. For example, for dry skin, you can choose a setting spray containing hyaluronic acid, which can replenish moisture for the skin and make the makeup more adherent. For sensitive skin, you need to choose a setting product with simple and gentle ingredients to avoid allergic reactions.
(II) Choose according to makeup needs
If you need to create a matte makeup, you can choose a setting powder or setting spray with good oil control effect; if you need to create a watery makeup, you can choose a setting spray containing moisturizing ingredients and match it with some glossy setting powder. In addition, if it is used in daily life, you can choose a light setting product, such as a light loose powder or spray; if it is used in occasions where makeup needs to last for a long time, such as weddings or parties, you need to choose a setting product with a stronger lasting effect.
(III) Choose according to the season
The skin condition will be different in different seasons. In summer, the skin is prone to oil and sweating, so you need to choose a setting product with good oil control and lasting effect; in winter, the skin is relatively dry, so you need to choose a moisturizing setting product. For example, in summer, you can use Urban Decay’s All Nighter setting spray to control oil secretion; in winter, you can use MAC’s Fix + setting spray to replenish moisture for the skin.
IV. Correct use of setting makeup
(I) How to use setting spray
When using setting spray, you need to shake the spray first, and then spray it evenly on the face at a distance of about 20-30 cm from the face. Be careful to avoid the eyes and mouth when spraying to avoid discomfort. After spraying, you can let the spray dry naturally, or you can gently press the face to help it absorb. If you need a stronger setting effect, you can spray a layer repeatedly, but be careful not to overdo it, so as not to make the makeup look too heavy.
(II) How to use setting powder
When using setting powder, you need to first use a powder puff or makeup brush to dip an appropriate amount of setting powder, and then gently pat or sweep it on the face. For oily skin, you can pat more on the T-zone, the sides of the nose and other parts that are prone to oiliness; for dry skin, be careful not to overuse setting powder, so as not to make the skin dry. When using setting powder, pay attention to gentleness to avoid damaging the makeup.
V. Precautions after setting makeup
After setting makeup, although the makeup has been fixed, you still need to pay attention to some matters. First, avoid touching your face with your hands to avoid damaging the makeup or causing skin infection. Secondly, when you need to touch up your makeup, be sure to use oil-absorbing paper to absorb excess oil before using setting products. In addition, when removing makeup at night, you must thoroughly clean your skin to avoid setting products remaining on the skin, causing clogged pores or skin problems.
6. Niche recommendations for setting products
In addition to common setting sprays and setting powders, there are also some niche setting products that are worth a try. For example, some brands of setting essences, which usually contain high concentrations of moisturizing ingredients and film formers, can form a thin protective film on the surface of the skin while providing deep moisturizing to the skin. There is also a setting spray called Fenty Beauty, which not only has a good setting effect, but also has a light fragrance, making the whole makeup process more pleasant.
7. Conclusion
Setting is an indispensable step in the makeup process. Choosing the right setting product and using it correctly can make the makeup more lasting and delicate. Both setting spray and setting powder have their unique advantages. When choosing a setting product, you need to choose the most suitable product for yourself according to your skin type, makeup needs and season. I hope this article can help you find the most suitable setting artifact for you, so that your makeup can always be in perfect condition.