9 Setting Sprays That Will Lock In Your Makeup During South Africa’s Summer Heat
- BY SASHA-LEIGH HODGEN
- 4 days ago
- 3 min read
December in South Africa means long days in the sun, festive celebrations, and temperatures soaring well into the 30s. While we love the season, the last thing anyone wants is for their makeup to melt or slide off by midday. That’s where setting sprays come in… your secret weapon to keeping foundation, blush, and eyeshadow intact no matter how hot (or humid) it gets.
Think of setting sprays as the final, effortless touch that transforms your makeup from “done” to “flawless all day.” A few spritzes create an invisible veil over your skin, locking in foundation, blush, and shadow while keeping oils and sweat at bay. The best formulas don’t just hold your look, they breathe life into it. What this really means is that your makeup stays impeccable from morning coffee to evening cocktails, without constant touch-ups.
From mattifying formulas to hydrating mists, these 9 setting sprays will keep you looking flawless from morning to night.
For an affordable and effective option, the Smudge Matte Fixing Spray is a South African beauty staple and raved about online. This ultra-light mist sets makeup in place for hours while blending seamlessly into skin for a natural matte finish. It mattifies without over-drying, conditions the skin, and ensures makeup stays polished and long-lasting, perfect for the more humid days in December.
A true game-changer, this setting spray locks in makeup for up to 36 hours—yes, even through heat, humidity, and festive dance floors. Its quick-drying formula is transfer-proof in just three seconds, leaving no sticky residue or watermarks. If you need guaranteed all-day wear, this is the powerhouse mist to trust.
Perfect for oily or combination skin, this lightweight mist delivers an ultra-matte, shine-free finish. Enriched with aloe and vitamin E, it doesn’t just keep your makeup in place, it also soothes and hydrates. It’s especially handy for nights out, ensuring your base doesn’t fade or break apart.
With up to 16 hours of wear, Maybelline’s Lasting Fix is ideal for anyone who needs their makeup to withstand both the heat and a full day of activities. Oil-free, sweat-resistant, and suitable for all skin types, it locks makeup in place without altering its finish.
A cult favourite with a twist, this new radiance-boosting version combines hydration with a dewy glow. Infused with vitamin C, hyaluronic acid, and essential oils, it nourishes skin while setting makeup. Perfect for those who prefer a fresh, glowing look even under the sun.
This versatile 3-in-1 mist works as a primer, setting spray, and makeup refresher. It revitalises dull or dry skin while keeping makeup locked in all day. Ideal for touch-ups when you’re on the go or when you need a quick cooling boost, pop it in your favoruite tote for a quick refresher.
Vegan, oil-free, and budget-friendly, this setting spray is a no-fuss option that gets the job done. The improved spray nozzle ensures even application, and its 18-hour staying power makes it perfect for festivals, weddings, or long days out in the sun.
This global cult classic deserves a spot on any summer beauty list. Loved by makeup artists and celebrities alike, it promises up to 16 hours of smudge-proof, sweat-proof wear. Its temperature control technology ensures your makeup stays flawless even when the heat is cranked up.
Lightweight and refreshing, this continuous air-powered spray delivers an even mist that locks makeup in without feeling heavy. It’s especially loved for its natural finish, keeping everything in place while still allowing skin to breathe. A must-have for those who want longevity without the matte effect.
The Final Mist
With the festive season fast approaching, now is the time to invest in a setting spray that works for you. Whether you’re after a matte, shine-free look for hot summer days or a radiant glow that lasts all night, these nine mists will keep your makeup flawless—heat, humidity, and celebrations included. Spray, set, and forget the sweat.
