Sep 16, 2025

Should I Apply Setting Spray Before Or After Setting Powder?

Behind the Beauty

3 min

Every beauty baddie knows the importance of a flawless, long-lasting look. But when it comes to setting that look, the question of setting spray vs. setting powder often pops up, especially regarding the order of application.

Should you spray first or powder first? The answer, like many things in beauty, isn't as simple as choosing a lip gloss shade. Never mind…that’s hard too. Regardless, we’ve got you.

Let’s start by learning more about each of these makeup setting essentials, then dive into the ultimate, provocative beauty debate – do you apply setting spray before or after setting powder?

Understanding the Best Sets

What’s a setting spray? What’s a setting powder? Read on, bestie.

Setting Spray: A lightweight mist applied after makeup application to lock everything in place and prevent smudging, fading, or meltdowns. We at Morphe are known for our setting sprays, thanks to the Continuous Setting Mist.

Setting Powder: A finely milled powder used to mattify the skin, absorb excess oil, and prevent foundation from creasing. The Morphe Bake & Set Soft Focus Setting Powder is basically 24 hours of shine-free setting perfection to ensure your look stays locked.

The Traditional Set: Powder First

Most often you might see makeup artists recommending applying setting spray after setting powder for the below reasons.

Drying Time: Setting powder needs time to set and absorb oil before a setting spray is applied. Applying spray too soon can activate the powder, making it look cakey or patchy.

Layering: Think of creating the perfection complexion like building a house. Your foundation is the foundation, setting powder creates a smoother surface, and setting spray acts like the sealant, locking everything in.

Control: Applying setting powder first allows for targeted application, focusing only on areas that need oil control. Setting spray then provides a more even, all-over finish.