NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray Review

Quick Verdict

Setting spray is one of those products people often skip until they try it. A few spritzes at the end of a routine can help foundation look more like skin, reduce powderiness and make makeup last longer. NYX’s Matte Finish Setting Spray is one of the most popular affordable options. In this review we look at what setting sprays do, how to use this one, and when a different finish would suit you better.

This review is based on NYX Professional Makeup’s product information, current retailer listings and the general pattern of customer feedback. We have not tested it ourselves, and we separate documented facts from editorial opinion throughout.

Product Overview

The NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray is a lightweight mist in a spray bottle. NYX describes it as helping makeup last longer while giving a matte finish. It is designed to be sprayed over finished makeup. NYX also offers a Dewy Finish version for those who prefer a radiant look.

Key Features

• Lightweight setting mist
• Matte finish
• Designed to help makeup last longer
• Helps reduce powdery look
• Dewy version also available
• Budget-friendly price

What It Is Designed For

NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray is designed as the final step in a makeup routine. It aims to help foundation, concealer, blush and powder stay put, melt layers together so they look more natural, and keep shine under control.

What a Setting Spray Actually Does

Setting sprays typically contain film-forming ingredients that create a light layer over makeup, helping it resist rubbing and fading. They also add a small amount of moisture, which helps powder products melt into the skin rather than sitting on top. A matte setting spray adds oil-controlling properties to that, so skin looks less shiny as the day goes on.

It is worth keeping expectations realistic: setting spray improves wear, but it cannot fix a foundation that does not suit your skin, or make up for skipping moisturiser or primer.

How to Use It

Shake the bottle, hold it about an arm’s length from your face and close your eyes. Spray in an “X” and then a “T” shape to cover the whole face evenly. Let it dry naturally without touching or fanning your face. Two to four spritzes are usually enough.

Some people also spray between layers — for example, after foundation and again after powder — for extra hold. Others lightly mist a sponge before applying foundation for a smoother finish, or spray a brush before applying powder products to intensify them.

Matte or Dewy Setting Spray?

The matte version suits oily and combination skin, humid climates and anyone who wants a shine-free finish. The dewy version suits dry and mature skin, where a matte finish can look flat or emphasise texture. If you are unsure, consider your skin at midday: if it is usually shiny, choose matte; if it feels tight or looks dull, choose dewy.

How It Suits Different Skin Types

Oily skin: the matte finish is a natural fit, and it can help makeup last through a long day.

Combination skin: works well, especially when the rest of the routine balances the drier areas.

Dry skin: may feel slightly drying or look flat; the dewy version is likely a better choice.

Sensitive skin: check the ingredient list and avoid spraying directly into the eyes.

Pros & Cons

Who Should Buy It?

Buy NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray if your makeup fades or slides during the day, if your skin gets shiny, or if you want a simple, affordable way to help makeup look more natural and last longer.

Who Should Skip It?

If your skin is very dry, the matte finish may make your base look flat; the dewy version or a hydrating mist may suit you better. If you rarely wear makeup, a setting spray may simply be unnecessary.

Price and Value

We do not publish prices because they change; the button on this page opens the current listing. NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray is priced at the budget end of the market, and a bottle lasts a long time with a few sprays per use.

Setting Spray vs Setting Powder

Setting powder and setting spray do slightly different jobs. Powder absorbs oil and sets liquid products so they are less likely to crease or move, but it can make skin look dry or powdery if overused. Setting spray helps makeup stay in place and melts powder into the skin, giving a more natural finish.

Many people use both: a light layer of powder where they get oily or where concealer tends to crease, followed by setting spray over the whole face. If you only use one, oily skin often benefits most from powder, while dry skin may prefer a spray on its own.

Common Mistakes

The most common mistake is holding the bottle too close to the face, which can leave large droplets that disturb foundation. Hold it at arm’s length for a fine, even mist. The second is touching the face while the spray dries, which can smudge makeup; let it dry on its own. The third is expecting setting spray to make an unsuitable foundation work, since the base still needs to match your skin type.

Finally, avoid spraying too much. Soaking the face can make makeup slide rather than set, and a few well-placed spritzes are usually more effective.

Storage and Shelf Life

Keep the bottle closed and away from heat and direct sunlight, and wipe the nozzle occasionally so it keeps spraying a fine mist. If the spray starts to sputter, rinse the nozzle under warm water. Check the packaging for the recommended period after opening.

Alternatives

For setting with powder instead, try the Laura Mercier Translucent Loose Setting Powder. For a long-wear foundation to pair it with, look at L’Oréal Paris Infallible Fresh Wear Foundation.

FAQ

Do I need a setting spray?
Not always, but it can help makeup last and look more natural.

Can I use it with powder?
Yes, spray after powder to melt it into the skin.

Is the matte version good for dry skin?
Dry skin often prefers the dewy version.

How many sprays should I use?
Usually two to four, in an X and T shape.

Can I use it to refresh makeup?
A light mist during the day can help revive a powdery look.

Should I close my eyes?
Yes, always close your eyes when spraying.

Final Verdict

NYX Professional Makeup Matte Finish Setting Spray is a simple, affordable way to help makeup last and look more natural. It works best on oily and combination skin, and while it cannot fix poor prep, it is an easy final step to add to almost any routine.