The Pimmi Edit

Songkran has a way of humbling your makeup. You can spend an hour getting ready, only for it to disappear within minutes once the water hits.

That’s when I started paying more attention to waterproof setting sprays, not for the glow, but for how well they actually hold. I’ve tested quite a few, and I always come back to the ones that keep everything matte and in place. Dewy sounds nice in theory, but on me, it just turns oily.

So these are the ones I’d reach for when I know I’m stepping into a full day of heat, humidity, and water fights.

[Feature Image Credit: Charlotte Tilbury]

Waterproof setting sprays that actually hold up during Songkran

Urban Decay All Nighter Waterproof Makeup Setting Spray

Although they don’t officially sell this in Thailand, I had to include it because this is the one I always come back to. It’s kind of my reference point for what a waterproof setting spray should be. I remember going out to a rave, sweating, dancing, and somehow waking up with my eyeliner still sharp and everything still in place.

It uses temperature-control technology that helps lock makeup onto the skin, almost like it adjusts to heat and humidity as the night goes on. If I know it’s going to be a long, chaotic day, this is the one I trust the most.

L’Oreal Paris Infallible 3-Second Setting Mist

On the more affordable side, this one is surprisingly reliable. It’s one of those products you don’t expect much from, but it ends up doing exactly what you need it to do. The ultra-fine mist helps set everything quickly without leaving that heavy, sticky layer, and it has lightweight film-forming polymers that keep makeup in place without feeling suffocating. Easy, fuss-free, and honestly great for reapplying throughout the day.

Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless Setting Spray Matte

The original Airbrush Flawless is everywhere, but on me, it leans a bit too dewy. It starts off nice, then slowly turns into shine. The matte version feels more balanced. It still gives that soft-focus finish, but without tipping into oily territory. It’s infused with film-formers and smoothing agents that help blur and hold at the same time, so your skin still looks like skin, just more put together.

MAKE UP FOR EVER Mist & Fix Matte Setting Spray

This one feels very considered. It’s alcohol-free, which makes a difference if your skin gets irritated easily, but it still holds everything in place. It uses kaolin clay to absorb excess oil and niacinamide to help smooth the look of pores over time, so it’s doing a bit more than just setting your makeup. The finish is matte but not flat, more like controlled, which I appreciate.

Sephora Collection Makeup Setting Spray

I feel like people overlook Sephora Collection a lot, but they actually have some really solid products. This is one of them.

It’s lightweight, easy to wear, and gives a natural matte finish without over-drying the skin. The formula uses flexible setting agents that help makeup move with your skin instead of cracking, which makes it especially good for long days out.

ONE/SIZE On ‘Til Dawn Setting Spray

This one is a bit more intense, in a good way. If you have oily or combination skin, you’ll probably appreciate how locked-in everything feels.

It creates almost a seal over your makeup using strong film-forming polymers, which is why it holds up so well in heat and humidity. Just make sure to shake it properly, otherwise you might get a white cast moment.

Pramy Moisturizing Makeup Setting Spray Matte

Pramy is one of those under-the-radar brands that actually performs. It’s extremely affordable, but it holds up surprisingly well, especially if you’re looking for a matte finish.

It uses film-forming technology, which basically creates a thin, flexible layer over your makeup so everything adheres better and stays in place longer. This one is also alcohol-free and sensitive-skin friendly.