Alcohol Vs. Water Based Setting Spray: Which Is Better?

As cosmetic chemist Michelle Wong explains for Lab Muffin Beauty Science, the difference between alcohol- and water-based sprays boils down to their function on the skin. The former shields the skin and is also known as "fixing spray," while the latter only blends makeup. Ergo, all fixing sprays are setting sprays, but not all setting sprays are fixing sprays. 

Alcohol-based setting sprays contain polymers that remain on the skin after the alcohol in the spray evaporates off the face. These polymers form a film that locks makeup in place. Water-based setting sprays, on the other hand, don't have the same shielding capabilities. These types of sprays are used to blend makeup and moisturize the skin, creating a cleaner, brighter finish — but not necessarily a long-lasting one. 

For this reason, celebrity makeup artist Gloria Elias-Foeillet told Byrdie that alcohol-setting sprays are the superior option for extending your makeup's wear. However, that doesn't automatically mean alcohol-based setting sprays are better for your skin.