If you’re searching for a long-wear setting spray that can keep foundation, blush, and eye makeup locked down through humidity, heat, and long days, Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray is the benchmark most people compare everything else against. Below you’ll find a deep dive into how it works, who it’s best for, and smart application tips—plus a comparison table against top competitors so you can decide if All Nighter is the right finishing step for your routine.
What it is (and how it works)
All Nighter is a fine-mist, film-forming setting spray designed to make makeup last up to 16 hours. Urban Decay’s “Temperature Control Technology” is marketing speak for a blend of volatile solvents (that flash off quickly) and polymer film formers that create an ultra-thin, flexible net over makeup. That micro-film resists sweat and water (hence the waterproof claim), limits transfer, and helps base makeup settle into a smoother, more unified finish.
- Finish: natural to soft matte (not glowy, not flat)
- Skin types: normal, combination, and oily will love it; dry or sensitized skin should prep well (more on that below)
- Fragrance: very light cosmetic scent that dissipates fast
- Sizes: travel mini (1.0 oz / 30 ml) and standard (4.0 oz / 118 ml); seasonal jumbo sizes appear occasionally
Who it’s best for
- Long days & hot climates: commuters, brides, performers, and anyone facing heat, sweat, or masks.
- Oil-prone complexions: the soft-matte film helps curb midday shine without looking powdery.
- Event makeup: reduces transfer onto clothing and helps intricate eye looks last.
Who should consider an alternative:
- Very dry or reactive skin: high alcohol content can feel tight. Consider a hydrating or alcohol-free spray (e.g., Milk Hydro Grip Set + Refresh or Rare Beauty Always an Optimist).
- Dewy finish lovers: choose Urban Decay All Nighter Ultra Glow or Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless if you want more radiance.
Real-world performance (compiled from lab demos + broad user feedback)
Longevity: With proper prep (primer + set with a light powder), most users report 10–16 hours of intact base makeup. Blush and bronzer fade less; eyeliner and dark shadows resist smudging better when misted.
Transfer resistance: Not transfer-proof, but noticeably reduced on masks and shirt collars compared with no spray.
Humidity & workouts: Holds up well to light rain, sweat, and humidity. After high-sweat sessions, expect some T-zone glow but makeup generally remains intact.
Flash & photos: No white cast in flash photography (unlike some silica-heavy powders), which is why it’s a bridal staple.
Foundation compatibility: Plays nicely with most water- and silicone-based foundations. With very dewy or oil-rich tints, mist before and after light powder to improve grip.
How to apply for best results
- Base prep
Hydrate appropriately for your skin type (serum + moisturizer). Oily skin? Use an oil-controlling primer on T-zone. - The “sandwich” method (for all-day wear)
- Light mist of All Nighter on bare skin; let dry 30 seconds.
- Apply foundation/concealer.
- Set high-movement areas with a thin veil of powder.
- Finish with a generous X + T pattern of All Nighter (8–10 inches away).
- Eye makeup lock
Spray a touch onto a clean sponge and press gently over the eye area (eyes closed) to minimize shadow transfer. - Fix-it pass
If makeup looks powdery, mist once more and bounce a damp sponge to melt layers together.
Common mistakes to avoid
- Spraying too close = droplets or splotches. Keep 8–12 inches away.
- Drenching oily skin without blotting first. Remove surface oil, then mist.
- Using it to “set” wet cream bronzers or highlights—let creams dry or lightly powder first.
Ingredients snapshot
- Alcohol Denat. (the quick-drying carrier), Water, Polymer film formers (the fixative mesh), gentle humectants, and a small amount of fragrance.
- The high alcohol level enables the ultra-fine, fast-evaporating mist and helps with longevity—but can be drying or irritating on compromised skin. Buffer with moisturizer or consider a gentler spray if you’re sensitive.
Value & sizing
- Travel (1 oz / 30 ml): great for testing and on-the-go touchups.
- Standard (4 oz / 118 ml): the best cost per ounce, typically lasting several months with daily use.
- Jumbo seasonal: excellent value if you’re already a devotee.
Tip: If the nozzle clogs (common with film-formers), remove it and soak in warm water, then spritz a few times to clear.
How it compares (finish, wear, and use-case)
| Product | Finish | Longevity Claim | Best For | Not Ideal For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Setting Spray | Natural–soft matte | Up to 16 hrs | Heat, humidity, oily/combination skin; long days & events | Very dry/sensitive skin; dewy-finish lovers |
| Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray | Natural–satin (subtle glow) | Up to 16 hrs | Event makeup, drier or normal skin; soft radiance | Very oily T-zones unless powdered |
| NYX Matte Finish Setting Spray | Matte | Long wear | Budget-friendly shine control; oily/combination skin | Very dry skin; can feel tight |
| Morphe Continuous Setting Mist | Natural, “melting” effect | Makeup melding; some longevity | Removing powdery look; comfortable everyday wear | Extreme heat/sweat scenarios |
| Milk Makeup Hydro Grip Set + Refresh | Dewy/hydrating | Gripping + refresh | Dry/sensitive skin; dewy, fresh finish | Strong oil control or waterproof needs |
If you purchase through links on our site, we may earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.
Bottom line: If your top priority is staying power in tough conditions, All Nighter remains the most consistent performer. If you want radiance or less alcohol, look to Charlotte Tilbury or Milk.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Excellent longevity and transfer resistance for up to 16 hours
- Soft-matte finish that keeps shine at bay without chalkiness
- No white cast in photos; widely trusted for bridal/event makeup
- Mists evenly (fine spray), available in travel and standard sizes
Cons
- High alcohol content can feel drying or sting on compromised skin
- Not ideal if you prefer a dewy glow (consider Ultra Glow version)
- Can clog if not cleaned occasionally
- Waterproof ≠ swim-proof—heavy drenching will still disrupt makeup
Verdict: Who should buy it?
Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray is the workhorse of long-wear finishing sprays. If you live somewhere humid, have combo/oily skin, or want your makeup to survive weddings, photoshoots, or 12-hour shifts, this is the one most likely to deliver on its promises. If you’re dry-leaning or sensitive to alcohol, prep with richer skincare or pick a hydrating, low-alcohol alternative and expect a slightly shorter wear time.
FAQs
Is All Nighter safe for sensitive skin?
It’s widely used, but it does contain alcohol and a small amount of fragrance. If you’re sensitive, patch test on the jawline first and ensure your skin barrier is well-moisturized before use. Consider the Ultra Glow (more hydrating) or Milk Hydro Grip if alcohol is a no-go.
Will it make me break out?
All Nighter itself is not oily or comedogenic, but any product that prevents transfer increases wear time—meaning your base stays on longer. If you’re acne-prone, remove makeup thoroughly at night and keep your cleansing routine consistent.
Can I use it with powder sunscreen touchups?
Yes. Reapply powder sunscreen, then lightly mist All Nighter to “melt” it into the base and reduce a chalky look. Keep the nozzle at least 10 inches away for an even veil.
Also see our Urban Decay Naked Eyeshadow Palette Review
