Urban Decay Setting Spray: Is the All Nighter Worth It?

Anyone who’s ever spent 45 minutes perfecting a makeup look only to watch it slide off by lunch knows the hunt for a reliable setting spray is real. Urban Decay’s All Nighter has been a go‑to for years, but a 2023 reformulation promises a 22% finer mist and cooling technology that lowers skin temperature by 3°C on contact.

Longest wear guarantee: Up to 24 hours ·
Finer mist improvement: 22% finer than previous version ·
Skin cooling effect: Cools skin by 3°C on contact ·
Finish options: Natural, dewy, matte ·
Cruelty‑free: Yes (brand is vegan and cruelty‑free)

Below are the key specifications of Urban Decay All Nighter Setting Spray.

What happened to the urban decay setting spray?

Urban Decay didn’t replace All Nighter – it upgraded it. The 2023 reformulation addressed two common complaints: the mist wasn’t fine enough and the spray didn’t feel refreshing. The new version delivers a 22% finer mist and a patented Temperature Control Technology that cools skin by 3°C on contact (Urban Decay official website).

What changes were made in the 2023 reformulation?

• Nozzle redesigned to produce a finer, more even mist (Urban Decay).
• Added cooling complex that hydrates skin throughout the day (Urban Decay).
• Three finishes now available: Natural, Dewy, Matte (Urban Decay).

The pattern: Urban Decay listened to customer feedback and refined a classic without abandoning the core formula that built its loyal following.

Why did Urban Decay update the All Nighter formula?

• To compete with newer entrants like Charlotte Tilbury’s Airbrush Flawless, which built a reputation on a microfine mist (Charlotte Tilbury (official brand website)).
• To refresh a product that had been essentially unchanged since 2008 (Urban Decay).
• Consumer demand for multi‑benefit sprays (setting + skincare) drove the cooling and hydration upgrade (Cosmetic Proof (beauty review site)).

Is urban decay setting spray really that good?

All Nighter consistently ranks among the top‑selling setting sprays on Sephora and Ulta, and makeup artists frequently recommend it for long‑wear events (MissLJBeauty (beauty blog)). The formula is lightweight, hydrating, and reportedly non‑irritating for most users.

What do customer reviews say about Urban Decay setting spray?

A 2024 review on Cosmetic Proof called it “a lifesaver for weddings and long shifts,” noting that makeup stayed intact for 12+ hours without settling into fine lines (Cosmetic Proof). On the brand’s own site, the product holds an average rating of 4.5 stars from over 10,000 reviews (Urban Decay).

How does it perform in high humidity or heat?

• Independent tests show the spray resists sweat and humidity better than many drugstore alternatives (YouTube beauty creator).
• On oily skin, users report reduced shine by midday without a powdery finish (A Relaxed Gal (beauty blog)).
• Cooling effect provides a temporary refreshing sensation, though reviewers disagree on how long it lasts (Cosmetic Proof).

What this means: For everyday wear, All Nighter provides reliable performance, but individual results vary based on skin type and environment.

What is the number 1 setting spray?

Among beauty editors and retailers, Urban Decay All Nighter regularly claims the #1 spot. A 2025 roundup on MissLJBeauty named it the top overall performer for longevity and finish (MissLJBeauty). But the title is contested.

How does Urban Decay All Nighter compare to Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless?

This is the most common comparison in the premium setting spray segment. Here’s how they stack up on key specs:

The implication: Urban Decay wins on longevity, customization, and price. Charlotte Tilbury’s single finish appeals to those who want a “glass skin” effect, but All Nighter offers more flexibility for different looks and skin types.

What are the top 5 setting sprays?

Based on retailer rankings and expert lists, the current top five premium setting sprays are:

1. Urban Decay All Nighter (Urban Decay)
2. Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless (Charlotte Tilbury)
3. MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ (Cosmetic Proof)
4. NYX Matte Finish (A Relaxed Gal)
5. Too Faced Hangover Rx (MissLJBeauty)

Why this matters: All Nighter leads in durability and heat resistance, while MAC and Charlotte Tilbury are preferred for a dewy, photogenic finish. NYX remains the budget champion for oily skin, and Too Faced wins with a coconut‑water hydration base.

What setting sprays do makeup artists use?

Professional makeup artists consistently name Urban Decay All Nighter as their go‑to for bridal and event makeup. The fine mist and ability to lock in layers without disturbing the makeup make it a staple backstage.

Do professional makeup artists prefer Urban Decay?

• Interviews collected by beauty blogs show that All Nighter is the most‑cited setting spray among artists working weddings, red carpets, and fashion shows (MissLJBeauty).
• Artists praise its ability to withstand heat, tears, and long hours (YouTube beauty creator).
• Second and third choices often include MAC Prep + Prime Fix+ for a dewy finish and Charlotte Tilbury Airbrush Flawless for a luminous look (Charlotte Tilbury).

Despite minor drawbacks, All Nighter remains a top choice among professionals for high‑stakes makeup.

Timeline: Urban Decay All Nighter Evolution

• 2008: Original All Nighter Setting Spray launched (Urban Decay).
• 2023: Reformulation introduced: 22% finer mist, cooling technology, updated packaging (Urban Decay).
• 2024: Extended to new finishes (Dewy, Matte) and larger sizes (236 ml jumbo) (Urban Decay).

The pattern: Urban Decay has continuously updated All Nighter to stay relevant in a rapidly evolving beauty market.

What’s confirmed and what’s still unclear

The balance of evidence favours All Nighter as a high‑performing setting spray, but individual reactions and preferences still vary.

Expert voices

“Our lightweight spray has a 22% finer mist… cools skin by 3º on contact and hydrates all day.”

– Brand description on Urban Decay (official brand website)

“Lock in your makeup look for up to 24 hours.”

– Urban Decay (official brand website)

“Many artists reference All Nighter as their top pick for bridal and performance makeup.”

– Roundup compiled by MissLJBeauty (beauty blog)

The data and professional consensus point to a clear verdict. For anyone who needs makeup to survive a long day, a humid environment, or a high‑pressure event, Urban Decay All Nighter is the most versatile and cost‑effective option on the market. Charlotte Tilbury loyalists may prefer the luminous finish, but they’ll pay more for a single look. For the average buyer in the UK or Ireland, the choice is straightforward: All Nighter delivers proven performance at a price that won’t break the bank – or your makeup.

For more beauty product insights, check out our Dior Forever Skin Glow Foundation review and The Ordinary Squalane Cleanser guide.

If you are still deciding, a detailed All Nighter review provides a thorough look at its long-lasting claims.

Frequently asked questions