Is Urban Decay All Nighter the Best Setting Spray for Oily Skin, Weddings, and Workouts?
Setting sprays are often the unsung heroes of a flawless makeup routine. They don’t add pigment or shimmer, and they don’t correct or conceal – yet somehow, they hold everything together like the invisible force that keeps a look intact from morning to midnight. Among the sea of options on the market, the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray has earned cult status for its alleged staying power, lightweight feel, and makeup-melting magic. But does it really live up to the hype?
We tested this setting spray through long workdays, sweaty summer outings, and even the ultimate trial – dancing for hours at a wedding. Below, we break down everything you need to know about Urban Decay’s most iconic setting spray, from how it performs to whether it’s worth the price.
What Is the Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray?
Urban Decay’s All Nighter Long-Lasting Makeup Setting Spray is made to lock in your makeup for up to 16 hours without fading, smudging, or settling into fine lines. It boasts Temperature Control Technology – a fancy way of saying it helps lower the temperature of your makeup to keep everything in place, even in heat and humidity.
Formulated in partnership with Skindinavia, a brand known for its top-tier setting sprays, the All Nighter is oil-free, paraben-free, and suitable for all skin types. It dries down quickly, doesn’t feel sticky or heavy, and leaves a soft-matte finish that looks like your skin… just better.
First Impressions
Right out of the box, the All Nighter makes a sleek statement. The bottle is matte black with a soft purple cap – a chic aesthetic that feels right at home on any vanity. The spray mechanism delivers a fine, even mist (and yes, that’s important – you don’t want a setting spray that drenches your face like a garden hose).
The scent is light, clean, and fades almost instantly after application. Unlike some setting sprays that are overly perfumed or chemical-smelling, this one barely registers – an underrated plus, especially for those with sensitive noses.
The texture is where the All Nighter really shines. Once sprayed, it dries down almost immediately, leaving no tackiness, shine, or residue behind. It’s like a whisper of insurance over your finished look.
The Application
Applying the All Nighter is simple, but there are a few best practices to make the most of it:
Shake the bottle well before each use.
Hold it about 8–10 inches from your face.
Spritz in an “X” and “T” formation to ensure even coverage.
Let it set naturally – no need to fan your face or pat it in.
Pro tip: You can also spray your makeup brush or sponge with All Nighter before applying foundation or highlighter to amp up pigmentation and longevity. Makeup artists swear by this trick for photoshoots and weddings.
The Performance
In a word: yes. The All Nighter delivers on every claim it makes. After setting our makeup with it at 8 a.m., we were still glowing strong at 10 p.m. with no blotchy foundation, smudged eyeliner, or faded blush in sight.
Even in hot, humid weather, this spray acts like a topcoat that seals everything in place. It’s especially clutch for long events, travel days, or nights out where touch-ups aren’t an option. And it doesn’t just make your makeup stay put – it helps it look fresher for longer. We noticed less creasing around the eyes and nose, and powders didn’t cake or settle as the day went on.
Bonus points: it doesn’t feel like a film on your skin. Some setting sprays leave a noticeable layer behind, but the All Nighter feels like nothing at all.
Ingredients Breakdown
While the formula isn’t necessarily “clean” by strict green beauty standards, it is free from parabens and oils, making it safe for acne-prone or sensitive skin. Key ingredients include:
Alcohol Denat. – Helps the product dry quickly and sets makeup effectively.
Aloe Barbadensis Leaf Juice – Soothes and hydrates the skin.
PVP – A film-forming agent that holds makeup in place.
Despite the presence of alcohol (common in most setting sprays for staying power), we didn’t notice any dryness or irritation—even after daily use for a week.
Who It’s Best For
The All Nighter truly is universally flattering. Whether you have dry, oily, combo, or sensitive skin, this spray does the job without triggering breakouts or emphasizing texture. It’s a lifesaver for:
Brides and bridal parties
Makeup artists
Anyone with long workdays
Festival goers
People in hot/humid climates
If you’ve ever watched your carefully applied makeup disappear by lunch, this spray will change the game for you.
What Sets It Apart
There are dozens of setting sprays on the market, but few have the loyal fanbase or track record of Urban Decay’s All Nighter. It stands out because it’s not gimmicky – it simply works. No glitter, no overpowering fragrance, no sticky finish. Just makeup that stays where you put it.
It’s also been tested and trusted for years – a staple backstage at runway shows, on red carpets, and in everyday routines of beauty lovers everywhere.
Any Downsides?
Not many, but a few things to note:
Price: At around $36 for 4 oz, it’s not the cheapest setting spray out there. That said, a little goes a long way, and it’s one of the few beauty products that really earns its price tag.
Contains alcohol: While it didn’t dry out our skin, those with extremely sensitive or allergy-prone skin may want to do a patch test first.
Strong mist for some: If you’re used to ultra-fine mists, this one might feel a little more direct, but it’s still much better than most drugstore options.
Is It Worth It?
Absolutely. The Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray is one of those rare beauty products that lives up to the hype and then some. It’s dependable, effective, and surprisingly luxurious for a functional product. Whether you’re heading to the office or the dance floor, this spray ensures your look stays just applied all day (or night) long.
It’s not just a finishing step – it’s the invisible glue that holds your entire look together. And once you try it, you’ll wonder how your makeup ever lasted without it.