L'Oréal 3-Second Setting Mist Review: Ultimate Makeup Spray
Living in the South means sweltering in 94-degree heat by 9:30 in the morning. At this stage of my life, a setting spray is a must whenever I wear makeup. I tend to run a bit warm, and even a simple walk from the front to the back of the house can ruin my makeup, let alone spending time outside or strolling along the riverfront. And as for vacuuming, that's the robot’s job. He doesn’t sweat. 😅
When we moved here a few years ago, I tested numerous setting sprays before finally settling on Charlotte Tilbury’s Flawless Setting Spray. It’s a bit on the pricey side, but it works well and doesn’t bother my sense of smell.
My Personal Experience
Last Monday, I decided to do a full face of makeup. After my morning skincare routine, I applied SPF, primer, foundation, contour, bronzer, cream blush, eyeliner, eyeshadow, mascara, concealer, a bit of prism libre under my eyes to set and brighten, and then Jour setting powder on the most problematic pores. Instead of using my usual Charlotte Tilbury setting spray, I tried out the L'Oréal Paris 3-Second Setting Mist. I shook the can and sprayed it in circular motions around my face from about 10-12 inches away for 3 or 4 seconds.
Observations After Five Days
The mist is extremely fine, with no large droplets landing on my face like my regular spray.
The scent is awful, reminiscent of Aquanet. Thankfully, it dries quickly and the scent disappears.
The 3-Second Setting Mist lives up to its promises. Though it doesn’t claim to be “transfer-proof,” it is “transfer-resistant up to 36 hours.” That’s fair. I kept a tissue with me all day and saw only the slightest hint of color towards the end of the day.
Yes to water resistance and yes to smudge resistance. Impressive, indeed.
After nearly a week, I haven’t had any breakouts or skin irritation. (This would be a deal-breaker for my sensitive skin.)
It’s cost-effective and widely available at most drugstores. $13.99 at CVS, $10.98 at Walmart.
I’m not a fan of the glow it gives, as it can emphasize pores, but it’s not too bad. If you’re not using other glowy products, it’s fine.
I didn’t feel it on my face once it dried.
I wasn’t willing to leave it on for 36 hours, but you get the point—it lasts a long time.
Overall, L'Oréal’s 3-Second Setting Mist performs as well as, if not better than, Charlotte Tilbury’s and is easier on the wallet. However, I really dislike the scent, and I’d pay extra to avoid it. Thank goodness I don’t wear that much makeup regularly. My cleansing oil, cleansing foam, and glycolic acid had quite the workout this past week!
Product Detail Claims
Up to 36H wear in just one spray.
New professional-inspired aerosol format that instantly dries.
Transfer and sweat-resistant wear.
Feels lightweight.
New professional-inspired microfine aerosol mist format that instantly dries and applies evenly without leaving droplets or traces.
Lightweight and breathable on the skin.
Up to 36 hours transfer-resistant wear.
Sweat and smudge resistant.
Face, eye, and lip makeup resists transfer all day.
Leaves a natural healthy glow finish.
Spray does not leave a white cast, mark, or settle, and prevents makeup from cracking, flaking, or caking.
The Bottom Line
This product delivers on its claims. It’s not infallible, but it’s close. That’s a win in my book!
How to Use
Shake well before use. Hold spray 12 inches away from the face and spray in a circular motion for even distribution. Keep eyes and mouth closed. Wipe excess product. Do not intentionally inhale. In case of irritation, rinse immediately with water.
Ingredients
ALCOHOL DENAT. • DIMETHYL ETHER • AQUA / WATER / EAU • VA/CROTONATES/VINYL NEODECANOATE COPOLYMER • AMINOMETHYL PROPANOL • TRIETHYL CITRATE • BENZYL SALICYLATE • LINALOOL • BENZYL ALCOHOL • ALPHA-ISOMETHYL IONONE • OCTYLACRYLAMIDE/ACRYLATES/BUTYLAMINOETHYL METHACRYLATE COPOLYMER • CITRONELLOL • HEXYL CINNAMAL • PARFUM / FRAGRANCE
Customer Reviews
The product has mixed reviews, with an overall rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars. Most people really liked L'Oréal 3-Second Setting Mist and some didn’t like the scent.
Final Thoughts
L'Oréal Paris 3-Second Setting Mist is a reliable option for those looking for long-lasting makeup hold, especially in hot and humid conditions. While it has a few downsides, like its scent, its performance and affordability make it a worthy contender in the setting spray market. For mature-skinned women who love makeup, this product offers a budget-friendly alternative without compromising on quality.
What do you think? Ready to give L'Oréal Paris 3-Second Setting Mist a try?! Have you tried it? Do you have another setting spray you prefer more? Share your experiences in the comments below.
DISCLAIMER:
I handpick every single product I share with you because they've genuinely won my heart. I only recommend things I've personally tried and adored. A massive shoutout to all of you who've taken the time to read this review – it means the world to me! Just so you know, all these luscious items are bought by yours truly. 🌟💄❤️