So you're thinking about trying Urban Decay setting spray? Smart move. I've been down that road – standing in Sephora staring at those iconic purple bottles, wondering if they're worth the hype. After using them religiously for three years (and occasionally cursing at clogged nozzles), I'll spill everything. No fluff, just real talk about what these sprays actually do for different skin types and situations.
Urban Decay setting sprays aren't just makeup extenders; they're temperature-controlling, humidity-fighting marvels. But which one's right for you? And does that hefty price tag justify itself? Let's unpack this properly.
Why Urban Decay Setting Sprays Actually Work
Most setting sprays feel like fancy water in a bottle. Not these. The magic's in their patented Temperature Control Technology. Sounds sci-fi? Basically, it reacts to your skin's heat to prevent melting. During my vacation in Bali (90% humidity, ugh), my foundation stayed put for 14 hours using All Nighter. Without it? Melted off by lunch.
But here's what nobody tells you: not all formulas work the same. The original All Nighter gave my oily sister breakouts, while De-Slick saved her wedding makeup. Know your skin!
The Complete Urban Decay Setting Spray Lineup
Choosing the right one feels overwhelming. This comparison table breaks it down based on my testing:
| Spray Name | Best For | Finish | Size/Price | My Durability Test |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| All Nighter | Normal/Combination skin | Natural | 30ml ($16), 118ml ($36) | 12-16 hours (great for office days) |
| De-Slick | Oily/Acne-prone skin | Matte | 30ml ($16), 118ml ($36) | 10-14 hours (blotting needed after 8hrs) |
| Chill | Dry/Sensitive skin | Dewy | 118ml ($34) | 8-10 hours (hydration lasts 6hrs) |
| All Nighter Ultra Matte | Extremely oily skin | Velvet matte | 118ml ($36) | 14+ hours (best for concerts/sweat) |
Pro tip: The 30ml travel size is perfect for testing. I learned this after wasting $36 on Chill when my combo skin hated it.
How to Use It Like a Makeup Artist (Without Paying $200)
Spraying randomly won't cut it. After interviewing two UD makeup artists, here's their method:
- The "X+T" Technique: Hold bottle 8-10 inches away. Spray in X pattern, then horizontal line. Prevents patchiness
- Double-Layer for Events: Light spray after foundation, then full spray after powder. My cousin's wedding makeup lasted 18 hours using this!
- Fix Clogged Nozzles: Remove cap, soak nozzle in warm water for 5 mins. I do this monthly – saves $36 on new bottles
Common mistakes? Over-spraying (3-4 pumps max) and shaking the bottle. The formula separates, so shake for 3 seconds before use.
Confession time: I thought UD spray caused my makeup cracking until I realized I was spraying BEFORE foundation. Huge mistake. Now I always apply after all makeup.
Where to Buy & Save Money
Urban decay setting sprays aren't cheap. Here's how to shop smart:
- Sephora/Ulta: Best for returns if you react badly (happened to my friend with sensitive skin)
- UD Website: 20% off discounts during Black Friday. Stock up!
- Costco Online: Occasionally sells twin-packs at 30% off (check October/May)
Watch out for Amazon fakes. I got a watery counterfeit once – smelled like chemicals instead of UD's subtle violet scent.
Brutally Honest Pros & Cons
After testing all variants for 6+ months each:
| Pros 👍 | Cons 👎 |
|---|---|
| ● Truly extends makeup by 8-16 hours ● Controls oil better than drugstore options ● No flashback in photos ● Vegan & cruelty-free |
● Expensive ($36 for 4oz) ● Heavy fragrance irritates sensitive skin ● Nozzles clog frequently ● Not refillable (eco-unfriendly) |
For the price, I expect better packaging. My De-Slick bottle's nozzle broke after 3 months – had to transfer it to an old bottle.
Urban Decay Setting Spray FAQ
Can Urban Decay setting spray replace primer?
Nope. Used alone before a beach day, my foundation slid off in 2 hours. Always pair with primer for max hold.
Does it work with cream makeup?
Surprisingly yes! But spray lightly – heavy application made my cream blush streak. Test first.
What about flashback in photos?
Zero issues, even with flash. Used it for my sister's indoor wedding photos – skin looked natural, not ghostly.
Can it prevent mascara smudging?
Partially. Reduced my raccoon eyes by 70%, but tubing mascaras still work better.
Alternatives When UD Isn't Right For You
Urban decay setting spray isn't universal. Based on skin types:
| Skin Type | Better Alternative | Why | Price Comparison |
|---|---|---|---|
| Very sensitive skin | Clinique Moisture Surge Spray | Fragrance-free, alcohol-free | Similar price ($29/4.2oz) |
| Budget shoppers | NYX Matte Finish Spray | 80% similar performance | Cheaper ($8.50/2oz) |
| Extreme humidity | Ben Nye Final Seal | Theater-grade sweat resistance | Better value ($20/3oz) |
For humid climates? During Bangkok summers, Ben Nye outperformed my UD De-Slick. But UD wins for daily comfort.
Application Cheat Sheet
Quick-reference dos and don'ts:
- DO: Store upright (prevents nozzle clogs)
- DON'T: Use on bare eyelids (stings like hell)
- DO: Combine with UD Primer Potion for 18hr eye makeup
- DON'T: Apply near hairline (can cause breakouts)
- DO: Reapply minimally mid-day (1 spray max)
Final Verdict: Who Should Actually Buy It
After all this testing? Urban decay setting spray shines for:
- Event makeup (weddings, photoshoots)
- Oily/combination skin types willing to pay premium
- Humid climate dwellers needing temperature control
Skip if you have:
- Severely sensitive skin or fragrance allergies
- Very dry skin (Chill formula isn't hydrating enough)
- Budget under $30/month for makeup
My personal ranking: De-Slick > All Nighter > Ultra Matte > Chill. For most people, All Nighter is the safest bet. Buy the travel size first – Ulta has it for $16.
Make It Last Longer: Pro Maintenance Tips
Make that $36 bottle stretch further:
- Clean nozzle weekly: Wipe with alcohol pad (prevents 80% of clogs)
- Store in cool place: Heat degrades the formula (my bathroom bottle lasted 2 months less than bedroom one)
- DIY refresh spray: When 20% left, add 1 tsp distilled water – revives it for another week
Urban Decay setting sprays revolutionized makeup longevity. Are they perfect? No. But when you need bulletproof makeup? Nothing else in my kit compares.
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