If you’re on the hunt for a mattifying setting spray, you might have seen Morphe’s version pop up everywhere.
I wanted something that could keep my makeup intact through a busy day while keeping oil at bay, so I tried this one out to see if it lived up to its bold claims.
Let’s just say, my experience left me with a lot to share.
My Experience with Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray
When I first bought the Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray, I was optimistic.
The packaging looked sleek, the claims were ambitious, and I already knew Morphe had a strong reputation for certain makeup products.
They promised up to 12 hours of reduced shine, oil control, and a lightweight feel — all the things my combination-to-oily skin needs in a setting spray.
The first time I used it, I followed the instructions exactly: shook the bottle, sprayed a mist from about 9 inches away, and let it set.
My initial thought was that the spray didn’t feel like a fine mist at all.
Instead, it hit my face in larger droplets, which isn’t ideal when you’ve just perfected your foundation and powder.
I tried patting it in with a sponge, as they suggested, but it already felt a bit sticky on my skin.
Within a couple of hours, I could feel my T-zone becoming shiny again.
By lunchtime, my makeup was already separating in places — especially around my nose and chin — which is exactly what I hoped this spray would prevent.
I experimented over the next week, changing up the number of sprays, using it both before and after makeup, and even trying to spray it on my hands first before applying.
While applying with my hands gave a slightly better distribution, it was far from the effortless, fine-mist setting sprays I’m used to.
And the mattifying claim? That was the biggest letdown.
It didn’t seem to reduce my oil production much at all.
In fact, on humid days, it almost felt heavier, like it trapped warmth and moisture against my skin.
I also noticed that my hairline would sometimes feel tacky after spraying — not a feeling you want when you’re heading out the door.
To be fair, it didn’t irritate my skin or cause breakouts, and I appreciated that it contains niacinamide and a fruit extract blend for some skin benefits.
But in terms of doing what it says — keeping makeup matte and fresh for hours — my results didn’t match the marketing.
Instead of feeling confident that my makeup was locked in, I found myself blotting my face and re-powdering throughout the day.
It wasn’t the seamless solution I’d been hoping for.
Maintenance Tips for Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray
- Shake Before Each Use: Always shake the bottle well before spraying to ensure the formula is evenly mixed for the best performance.
- Prime the Nozzle: Spray one quick burst into the air before aiming at your face to reduce the risk of large droplets hitting your makeup.
- Clean the Nozzle Regularly: Wipe the nozzle after every few uses to prevent buildup that can affect spray quality.
- Store Upright: Keep the bottle standing upright to avoid leakage and preserve the pressure needed for an even spray.
- Avoid Over-Spraying: Too much product can create a sticky layer rather than a light, breathable hold.
- Test with Different Tools: If the direct mist is uneven, try spraying onto a beauty sponge or brush for a more controlled application.
- Keep Away from Heat: Store in a cool, dry place to protect the formula’s stability and maintain spray consistency.
- Replace if Spray Changes: If the mist becomes clogged or changes texture, it might be time to replace the bottle for consistent results.
- Travel with Caution: Use the cap and avoid packing the spray loosely with heavy items to prevent accidental nozzle pressure.
- Check Expiry Date: Makeup setting sprays can lose effectiveness over time, so keep track of when you purchased it.
Pros and Cons of Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray
Pros:
- Mattifying Ingredients: The formula includes niacinamide, known to help minimize the appearance of pores, and fruit extracts that can nourish the skin while wearing makeup.
- Sweatproof and Humidity-Proof Claims: On paper, the product is designed to handle challenging conditions, which might work better for those in mild climates.
- Skin-Friendly Formulation: I didn’t experience irritation, redness, or breakouts during my time using it, which makes it a safer option for sensitive skin types.
- Travel-Friendly Packaging: The slim, lightweight design makes it easy to slip into a makeup bag without taking up too much space.
- Part of a Known Brand Line: As part of Morphe’s popular setting spray family, it has brand recognition that might appeal to fans of their other products.
- Can Be Used with Sponge Application: Spraying onto a sponge and pressing into the skin can give a more even finish for those who dislike the direct spray method.
Cons:
- Uneven Spray Distribution: Instead of a fine, even mist, it often sprays in larger droplets that can disrupt makeup and leave patches.
- Sticky Residue: The formula can leave the skin feeling tacky, particularly near the hairline or jawline, which is uncomfortable for all-day wear.
- Underwhelming Mattifying Effect: In my experience, shine control lasted only a couple of hours before oil returned, falling short of the claimed 12 hours.
- Can Weigh on Skin in Humidity: On warmer days, it seemed to trap heat and moisture, making my skin feel heavier rather than fresh.
- Not Ideal for All-Day Events: Makeup breakdown around the T-zone happened sooner than expected, which means extra touch-ups are still needed.
- Spray Nozzle Quality: The sprayer mechanism doesn’t match the quality of some competitors, leading to inconsistent product delivery.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Evian Facial Spray
Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. Other Brands
- Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. Urban Decay All Nighter
Urban Decay All Nighter has been a go-to for makeup lovers for years because it delivers consistent, long-lasting results.
It sprays in a super fine mist that doesn’t disturb makeup and locks it in for up to 16 hours without feeling heavy.
Compared to Morphe’s version, the oil control is far superior, and the finish feels weightless.
While Morphe’s formula contains some skincare-friendly ingredients, the actual staying power falls short.
If you’re looking for serious longevity without extra touch-ups, Urban Decay wins this comparison.
- Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. NYX Matte Finish
NYX Matte Finish setting spray is one of the most budget-friendly options out there, yet it still manages to outperform Morphe in oil control and spray quality.
The mist is lighter, more even, and doesn’t leave sticky residue.
While it may not last as long as higher-end sprays like Urban Decay, it still holds makeup better than Morphe in my experience.
For the price, NYX offers a more reliable matte finish for those with oily or combination skin.
- Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless
Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray is on the luxury end, but it earns its place with an ultra-fine mist, skin-smoothing finish, and impressive longevity.
It keeps makeup intact while giving a natural matte look that doesn’t feel dry.
In comparison, Morphe feels heavier and less refined in application.
If budget isn’t a concern, Charlotte Tilbury’s formula offers a more comfortable wear and truly enhances the overall makeup look without the tackiness.
- Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. Milani Make It Last Matte
Milani’s Make It Last Matte is another affordable gem that easily outperforms Morphe in key areas.
It delivers a controlled mist, sets makeup without leaving a sticky layer, and extends wear time noticeably.
On warm days, it controls shine better than Morphe and doesn’t have that heavy, trapped feeling.
While Milani might lack the brand prestige of Morphe, it delivers a more satisfying performance for everyday wear.
- Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray Vs. MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte
MAC’s Prep + Prime Fix+ Matte takes the classic Fix+ formula and gives it oil-control properties, making it a strong competitor in the matte setting spray category.
It sprays evenly, refreshes the skin, and keeps shine at bay longer than Morphe.
While both contain skin-benefiting ingredients, MAC’s formula feels more breathable and doesn’t leave a sticky residue.
For a professional, photo-ready finish, MAC’s version feels more reliable.
Also Read: My Thoughts On Cover FX Setting Powder
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
In my experience, the mattifying version isn’t as effective as other sprays for controlling oil long-term, so oily skin types may need to reapply or choose an alternative.
It can provide a temporary matte finish and help makeup stay in place for a few hours, but it doesn’t deliver the full-day hold it claims.
From what I’ve tested, Urban Decay All Nighter and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless outperform Morphe in both longevity and oil control.
It helps reduce shine, control oil, and keep makeup in place by creating a lightweight layer over your finished look.
Final Thoughts
After testing the Morphe Mattifying Setting Spray, I can say it didn’t meet my expectations for oil control or lasting power.
While it has some skincare-friendly ingredients and a sleek design, its performance is overshadowed by more effective competitors in the same category.
If you want a setting spray that truly keeps you matte and your makeup fresh all day, there are better options out there.
