If God gives the toughest battles to his strongest soldiers, beauty fiends are the whole infantry, fiercely defending our laborious make-up looks from caking, cracking and creasing under the sweltering heat and humidity of our region. Ask the front-line warriors about their chosen tools of combat, and it’s likely that you’ll hear of two go-to weapons: setting spray and setting powder.
While both serve the same main purpose—strengthening the staying power of a fresh face of make-up under harsh climate conditions—setting sprays and setting powders do possess several differences, prompting most individuals to advocate for one or the other based on their unique preferences. In broad terms, setting sprays offer a high-shine, dewy glow while powders, an airbrushed and flawless matte finish. But the answers to this rendition of ‘This or That’ are far from black-and-white, for some of us might also opt to spritz an extra layer of longevity mist above a lightly dusted visage. Then, there are the considerations given to skin types and sensitivities, which determine the product’s compatibility with its wielder.
@kyleedethier they serve two completely different purposes! ✨👀 #makeup #makeuptips #makeuphacks #makeuptutorial #beauty #nz ♬ Roxanne – Instrumental – Califa Azul
Indeed, no crisis is more dreaded by the beauty cognoscenti than the inability to prolong the life of our daily glam. Below, award-winning celebrity make-up artist Sahur Saleim gives us the low-down on which beauty weapon is most powerful in tackling our atmospheric adversary and the best tactics to use them effectively.
What is the key difference between setting sprays and setting powders?
The main difference comes down to the specific formulation. Some sprays can be either hydrating or matte, while powders typically work to mattify the skin. In a humid climate like Singapore’s, I always recommend using a setting powder to prolong your make-up, no matter your skin type. Aside from setting liquid or cream-based products in place, it acts as a physical layer that absorbs moisture from humidity in the atmosphere, as well as the sweat and oil you produce—keeping your make-up fresh for hours. In cooler countries with dry air however, there is a greater need for a hydrating setting spray.
Are there specific ingredients or formulations in setting sprays or setting powders that people should look out for based on skin type?
Yes, definitely! Some ingredients, such as talcum powder and fragrances can irritate sensitive skin. As my own sensitive, acne-prone skin was reacting poorly to other powders, Sahur’s Art spent two years formulating our Ethereal Talc Free Loose Setting Powder to be free of both. Talc is also responsible for the white flashback seen on skin under flash photography and leaves a white cast on deeper skin tones.
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For sensitive skin or specific skin concerns, what considerations should be kept in mind when choosing between setting sprays and setting powders?
A combination of setting powders and setting sprays can be really refreshing for those with dry skin. Oily skin types may find setting sprays sticky in our humidity, so I would suggest only using setting powders. The same goes for acne-prone skin! Simply put, setting powders eliminate texture while setting sprays emphasise texture, so it depends on what each individual prefers.
Should setting sprays and setting powders be used together in a make-up routine?
Definitely, but this depends on your skin concerns. In general, adding a spray over a powdered finish can restore dimension to the complexion. However, those with acne-prone skin should avoid using both in conjunction, as the extra moisture may activate breakouts and cause foundation to appear cakey around the nose.
Are there any particular application techniques or tips you recommend for using setting sprays or setting powders to achieve the best results?
My best advice: work in layers. The first layer should consist of all your cream and liquid products, think foundation, concealer and blushes, etc. Set it with a loose powder, before layering your powder products next, such as highlighters and bronzers. This gets the best use out of the formulations. If needed, a setting spray should be the last layer.
