my thoughts on the elf power grip setting spray

When the e.l.f. Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray first hit the shelves, I, like many others, was incredibly excited. The original Power Grip Primer is a holy grail for so many, including myself, so the idea of a setting spray with 'MAJOR MAKEUP GRIP' and a 'dewy' finish sounded like a dream come true. I envisioned a long-lasting, radiant look that would lock my makeup in place all day. Unfortunately, my experience didn't quite live up to the hype, and I wanted to delve a bit deeper into why this particular product was a miss for me. One of the first things I noticed, and something the OCR also highlighted, was the 'SHOCKINGLY FINE MIST.' While a fine mist is often desirable in setting sprays – you don't want big droplets ruining your foundation – this one was almost too fine. I found myself having to spray upwards of 20-30 times, circling my face repeatedly, just to feel like I had actually applied enough product. It felt inefficient and wasteful, and even then, I wasn't convinced I had even coverage. Instead of a refreshing veil, it felt like I was battling a barely-there cloud. Then came the feeling on my skin. The bottle itself has a slightly viscous look, hinting at the texture, but I wasn't prepared for how oily it felt. As someone with combination skin, I crave a dewy finish that looks healthy and radiant, not greasy. This 'Dewy Setting Spray' left my skin with a distinct slickness that felt uncomfortable, especially after my makeup was already applied. It felt heavy, and instead of blurring imperfections or melting powders together, it seemed to sit on top of my skin, accentuating texture rather than smoothing it. I can imagine for someone with extremely dry skin, this might be a welcome hydration boost, but for me, it was just too much. The biggest letdown, however, was its performance as an actual 'finishing spray.' The promise of 'MAJOR MAKEUP GRIP' was what really drew me in. I desperately want my makeup to stay put, especially my foundation. With this spray, I experienced the opposite. My foundation transferred more than usual onto my phone, clothes, and even just from a light touch. It felt like it created a barrier that made my makeup more prone to sliding around, rather than sealing it in. It definitely didn't extend the wear of my makeup; if anything, I felt my look breaking down faster than it would without any setting spray at all. That crucial 'setting' power was simply absent. Finally, let's talk about the scent. I'm not overly sensitive to fragrance, but this 'elf finishing spray' had a really distinctive, somewhat chemical and almost fermented smell that I couldn't quite place. It wasn't pleasant, and it lingered for a little while after application, which isn't ideal when you're trying to achieve a fresh, clean makeup look. I adore e.l.f. products, and many of their affordable offerings are staples in my routine. That's why this particular experience with the Power Grip Dewy Setting Spray was so disappointing. While it might appeal to those with extremely dry skin who love an ultra-dewy, almost slick finish and aren't bothered by a lingering scent or the need for extensive spraying, for combination skin like mine, and for anyone truly seeking to lock their makeup in place, I'd suggest exploring other options. It just goes to show, even beloved brands can have products that aren't a universal fit.