Applying Setting Spray: Before or After Mascara?

Oh em gee, besties; let’s talk about something that literally blows my mind every time I do my makeup: setting spray and mascara. Like, which one comes first? Do we seal our makeup with setting spray before we wiggle that wand through our lashes? Or do we spray our faces once our mascara is all done, lashes poppin’, and then risk having it smudge all over? If you’re like me, you’ve probably asked yourself this because honestly, makeup rules can sometimes get as confusing as TikTok algorithm changes.

So, grab your iced matcha or whatever you’re sipping on right now because, babe, we’re gonna break this down so you never have to deal with raccoon eyes again!

Okay, let’s start with the basics: Setting spray is that final magical mist that locks in all the work we’ve done on our faces so we can slay all day (or at least until our next Starbucks run). It keeps your makeup from melting off your face when you’re sweating like crazy under the sun, at the beach, on the dance floor; basically everywhere. And we love a hardworking product, right?

But then… mascara. 💀 We can’t forget about the lashes! They basically complete the look. Your whole face is beat, but without long, flirty lashes, it’s like watching your fave movie with bad lighting. It just doesn’t hit the same. Sooo, how do we marry these two without ending up in #makeupfail zone? Do you spray before or after mascara? Let’s find out!

The Great Debate: Before or After Mascara?

Ahh, the drama. Is there really a right way to do this? The answer: Yes… but also no! 😂 Kinda depends on the products you’re using and how you like your face to look afterward. But don’t worry, I got you covered with all the tea!

First, let’s start with setting spray before mascara: The moment where it feels like your face is super complete, but your lashes are still bare. If you spray at this point, you’re getting all that good holding power before your mascara goes on. That can be a game-changer for some because you might avoid clumping, or worse; smudging. Plus, if you’ve ever blinked way too soon after spritzing and ended up with mascara marks on your cheeks, setting before means you totally avoid that problem! Like, we stan clean under-eyes.

But there’s one downside (duh, of course there’s always a catch): Sometimes, if you use a lot of powder or have super mattifying products on, your lashes can end up with a bit of fall-out from the spray. Gross. You don’t want dusty lashes, right?

Now let’s flip it. After mascara? This is where things get tricky because those long, luscious lashes we painstakingly coated with mascara could end up wet and heavy from the spray. And then, smudge city. Ugh. You know when you’re looking fire before you leave the house, but two hours later, you peek in the mirror and your mascara has migrated down your cheeks? 💀 We’ve all been there, sis, and it’s not a vibe.

But spraying after mascara can give your entire face that dewy, set-in-glow that you don’t get if you spray before mascara! And like, who doesn’t love a good dewy aesthetic?

So how do we make this work without ruining our whole vibe? Let’s break it down some more!

Spraying Before Mascara: Pros and Cons

Why it works (Pros):

• More control: You don’t have to worry about smudging your masterpiece out of the gate.
• Cleaner lashes: Avoid sticky, clumpy fallout. 🙌
• No raccoon eyes: Major benefit, especially for those prone to blinking with WET mascara. (Yes, I see you, girl. 👀)

Setting spray before mascara can offer more precision with your lash game.

The not-so-great part (Cons):

• Dry fallout: If you’re using a mattifying setting spray or heavy powder, you can risk getting those cute little mascara flakes making an appearance.
• You might need a top-up: It might feel like skipping an important step. That last spritz of setting spray really seals the deal, you know?

So if you’re rocking a super matte look because hot girl summer means no one wants to be oily, you might actually want to spray first and avoid potential sticky lashes.

Spraying After Mascara: Pros and Cons

Why it works (Pros):

• Seals the entire look: This is the biggie. It makes everything (yes, including your lashes) look “done.”
• Dewy + Glowy Look: Honestly, if you love a dewy, fresh-faced vibe; spraying everything at the end is key.
• Takes the extra sheen off mascara: If you want more of a natural lash finish (not super glossy), spraying after helps tone things down a bit while still adding drama.

Spraying after mascara can give you that final glow-up and make you feel like your makeup game is locked down.

The not-so-fun part (Cons):

• Potential smudging: Mascara (especially non-waterproof) does NOT love liquid when it’s freshly applied. So be careful.
• Ruins the curl: If your lashes are giving major curl queen vibes, a setting spray could flatten them out.

Ooof! The struggles are so real. But don’t freak. I got a hack for ya.

The Ultimate Hack: Mascara Last; BUT Protect Those Lashes!

Okay, so here’s what I personally do when I want everything to look flawless; and by “flawless,” I really just mean staying in place. 😅 Do your setting spray first to lock down your foundation, bronzer, blush, and brows. THEN, do your mascara after the setting spray has completely dried.

I’m serious, bff: Wait a bit and make sure that spray has fully melted into your skin. Think of it like you’re giving your base makeup the time it needs to settle into its groove. THEN go in with mascara as the icing on the cake.

This way, you’re getting the benefits of the setting spray without worrying about smudgy lashes or falling bits of mascara dust. You’ll still look so put-together.

Waterproof Mascara: The Smudge-Proof Savior?

Speaking of; if you’re more Team Spray-After but wanna prevent your mascara from running like water, you NEED to check out waterproof formulas. I know, I know… some people don’t love waterproof because it can be a literal pain to take off. But honestly, with the right makeup remover, it’s worth it.

Plus, those formulas are designed to resist moisture so you can spray, sweat, cry… and they’ll keep those lashes LIFTED. 💁‍♀️

Final Verdict: What Should YOU Do?

Sis, no matter how you slice it, this is your party! If you like spritzing BEFORE applying mascara, that’s a solid win for no smudges and clumps. If you’re all about the GLOW and want to lock things in after applying mascara, go ahead but make sure the spray mist is super light and you’re holding it at a good distance from your face.

Personally? I say spray first, curl and apply that mascara last. No messes, no stress.

PSA: There’s no “wrong” answer. Makeup is supposed to be fun; mess around with it and see what works best for you.

So next time you’re getting ready and reach for that setting spray, just be mindful of your lashes. They’re an important part of the crew too, babe!

Happy spraying and slaying, ladies!

💋