Let’s talk setting sprays! Setting spray is an integral part of my makeup routine and I’ve rotated through a few different brands. I recently bought the Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist to see how it compares to the setting spays I’ve tried before.
Previously, I’ve used the Morphe Continuous Setting Spray and the MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Fix +, both of which I loved. But, I love every Rare Beauty product I’ve tried so far and I wanted to try the setting spray. Keep reading to see how I liked it!
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The Product
The Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist retails for $32 CAD and is a light coverage glowy mist that hydrates, primes, sets and refreshes the skin. It’s compatible with dry, oily and combination skin.
The highlighted ingredients are:
Niacinamide, which helps improve the appearance of the skin,
Sodium Hyaluronate, which helps keep the complexion looking hydrated and plump, and
A Botanical Blend of Lotus, Gardenia and White Waterlily, which soothes, calms and nourishes the skin
The Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist can be worn underneath makeup as a primer or on top of makeup as a setting spray. It is also vegan free.
The Review
I wasn’t sure how to feel about a setting spray that works as a primer and setting mist, but I gave it a try because of my love for other Rare Beauty products. The size of the bottle is smaller than the MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Fix + bottle, and only contains 2.87 oz compared to 3.4 oz. The MAC Cosmetics setting spray is $4 more expensive.
I wouldn’t mind the difference in size, however, I feel like I use more product from the Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist. The mist is extremely fine and doesn’t spray as wide as the MAC Cosmetics Prep + Prime Fix +. I spray about five or six times to cover my whole face.
The mist feels dry on the face because it’s so fine, meaning you don’t get spray marks that a lot of setting sprays leave. I prefer a wetter setting spray because I dab the product in with a beauty blender, but it’s not a deal breaker.
The important thing is that the Rare Beauty Always An Optimist 4-in-1 Prime & Set Mist is effective. I’ve used it as a primer and setting spray and had no complaints. My makeup stayed all day when I used it both ways and I even use the spray when I’m not wearing makeup to set my skincare products and freshen up my skin. The product also smells really great, but it might not be something you care for if you don’t like fragrant products.
PROS: Works as a primer and setting spray, smells nice
CONS: Less product than other brands, requires a lot of sprays in one use
Would I buy this product again? I like it, but I don’t love it. I might try it out again, but there are other brands that offer more product for a slightly higher price.
Catch up on previous Makeup Monday and Skincare Sunday posts for more beauty-related content!
Thank you for the review, it is very helpful! Definitely a good product to consider, especially in the summer!